Description
This One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta is a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner that combines the zesty flavors of taco seasoning with comforting cheesy pasta. Made in a single skillet, this dish is simple to prepare, easy to clean up, and perfect for serving a family or a small group craving a hearty Tex-Mex inspired meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Pinch of black pepper
- 1 ounce packet taco seasoning (or about 3 1/2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup jarred mild salsa
- 8 ounces uncooked rotini pasta
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican-style cheese
Optional Toppings
- Chopped tomatoes
- Avocado slices
- Crushed tortilla chips
- Chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat the skillet: Heat a large deep skillet over medium heat to prepare for cooking the ground beef evenly.
- Cook the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, season with salt and a pinch of black pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned and thoroughly cooked.
- Drain grease: Once the beef is cooked, carefully drain any excess grease from the skillet to ensure a balanced flavor.
- Add taco seasoning and liquids: Stir the taco seasoning into the cooked ground beef, then mix in the water, jarred mild salsa, and uncooked rotini pasta. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Bring to a boil: Increase the heat and bring the mixture in the skillet to a rolling boil, preparing to cook the pasta.
- Simmer with cover: Stir the mixture once, cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Add cheese: Turn off the heat and immediately stir in the shredded Mexican-style cheese until melted and the pasta is creamy and cheesy.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the dish and season with additional salt and pepper if needed to enhance the flavors.
- Serve with toppings: Spoon the cheesy taco pasta onto plates and garnish with optional toppings such as chopped tomatoes, avocado slices, crushed tortilla chips, or chopped cilantro for added texture and freshness.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
- You can use homemade taco seasoning to control sodium and spice levels.
- If desired, substitute rotini with other small pasta shapes such as penne or shells.
- Ensure the skillet is large and deep enough to accommodate all ingredients and prevent boiling over.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
