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Cheesy Taco Pasta
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Cheesy Taco Pasta

This Cheesy Taco Pasta is the perfect weeknight comfort food—quick, satisfying, and bursting with bold Tex-Mex flavor. A mouthwatering mix of pasta, ground beef, zesty taco seasoning, and lots of gooey cheese—this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 580kcal
Cost $10-$12

Ingredients

  • 8 oz pasta penne, rotini, or shells work best
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 packet taco seasoning or 2 tbsp homemade
  • ½ cup water
  • 1 10 oz can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
  • ½ cup tomato sauce
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: chopped cilantro green onions, jalapeños

Instructions

  • Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.
  • Add onion and garlic: Stir in the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  • Season the beef: Add taco seasoning and 1/2 cup water. Stir well to combine, letting it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  • Mix in tomatoes and sauce: Add diced tomatoes with green chilies and tomato sauce. Stir and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
  • Combine pasta and beef: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.
  • Add cheese and sour cream: Turn the heat to low, then mix in shredded cheeses and sour cream. Stir until melted and creamy.
  • Serve: Garnish with your favorite toppings and serve hot.

Notes

  1. Don’t overcook the pasta – Keep it al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when mixed with the sauce.
  2. Use freshly shredded cheese – It melts better than pre-shredded varieties and gives a creamier texture.
  3. Make it spicier – Add a pinch of cayenne or a splash of hot sauce if you like more heat.
  4. Double the recipe – It’s perfect for meal prep and reheats beautifully for lunch the next day.