Quick and Easy Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta Recipe: A Flavor-Packed Family Favorite

This Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta recipe combines the best of both worlds—creamy, cheesy pasta with the bold, savory flavors of tacos! It's the ultimate one-pot meal, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights when you want something delicious, but don’t have the time for an elaborate dinner. The gooey melted cheese, seasoned beef, and flavorful taco spices blend together for a dish that will have your family asking for seconds.

Photo byRecipes By Lisa

I first came across this recipe on the Facebook page Recipes by Lisa, and I knew I had to try it. Trust me, it has become a staple in my household, especially when we need something quick and satisfying. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone from kids to adults will enjoy.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity: a one-skillet meal that requires minimal prep and cleanup, yet delivers maximum flavor. Whether you're a fan of tacos or pasta (or both!), this dish will satisfy all your cravings. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

Cultural Origins and Fun Facts

Taco-inspired pasta dishes like this one are a modern fusion of Mexican and Italian cuisines, blending classic taco ingredients—like seasoned beef and cheese—with hearty pasta. This combination is perfect for the American palate, where tacos and pasta are both family dinner staples. Using common pantry items like pasta, beef broth, and canned tomatoes, this dish is a great way to stretch ingredients into a filling meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 2 cups uncooked elbow pasta
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• ½ cup sour cream
• Optional garnish: chopped cilantro, jalapeños, or sliced olives

Directions:

1. Brown the Beef:

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess grease. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.

2. Season the Beef:

Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef mixture, stirring well to ensure the beef is fully coated in that flavorful spice blend.

3. Add Broth and Tomatoes:

Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir everything together until well combined.

4. Add Pasta:

Add the uncooked elbow pasta to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet and let the pasta cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking, until the pasta is tender.

5. Add Cheese and Sour Cream:

Once the pasta is perfectly cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Continue stirring until the cheeses have melted, creating a creamy, luscious sauce. Finally, fold in the sour cream for extra richness and smooth texture.

6. Serve:

Spoon the cheesy beef taco pasta into bowls and top with your choice of garnishes like chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or sliced olives. Serve immediately and enjoy this indulgent, taco-inspired comfort food!

Cooking Tips & Variations:

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish celiac-friendly.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Swap out the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute, or use black beans for a vegetarian twist.
• Spice It Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or extra jalapeños for more heat if you're a fan of spicy food.
• Extra Creaminess: Stir in a few tablespoons of cream cheese with the sour cream for an even creamier texture.

Suggested Side Dishes:

Pair this Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Cornbread or tortilla chips on the side can also make for an extra fun, Tex-Mex inspired dinner.

I hope you enjoy making this Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta as much as I do! If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to follow me for more delicious, easy-to-make meals. If you have any suggestions or tried some fun variations, I’d love to hear from you in the comments. And of course, share this recipe with friends who appreciate a good one-pot meal!