Taco Pasta {easy, cheesy, and full of flavor! }

This dinner is your lifesaver when you can’t decide between tacos or pasta, so you can have both! Beef is first browned with peppers and onions, added with taco seasoning for a classic flavor, then cooked with tomatoes, black beans and corn. Finally add a generous amount of cheddar cheese and stir until completely melted.

What you end up with is a cozy, crowd-pleasing skillet that’s just begging for your favorite ingredients. In my house, that means Greek yogurt, scallions, and a handful of tortilla chips!

before starting

Here are some tips for getting the best results from your taco pasta:

• Choose your meat: Ground beef, turkey or chicken will work! Use what you have.
• Don’t forget the pasta water: Reserve about a cup in case you want to loosen the sauce.
• Add more vegetables: Zucchini, spinach, or even mushrooms can be added for a nutritional boost.
• Seasoning: Want more heat? Add extra jalapeños or use spicy taco seasoning.
• Taco Seasoning: Use your favorite store-bought taco seasoning or make your own homemade taco seasoning!

How to Make Taco Pasta

Here’s how to make this cozy skillet dinner in no time:

1. Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside. Reserve a cup of cooking water for later use.

2. Brown the beef and vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, onions and green peppers. Cook, breaking up the meat, until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender, about 8-10 minutes.

3. Add garlic and seasonings

Add garlic, taco seasoning, and ketchup. Let it cook for about a minute, until fragrant.

4. Cook with tomatoes, beans and corn

Stir in diced tomatoes (with juice), black beans, corn and chicken stock. Stir well and bring everything to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 8-12 minutes, stirring occasionally and adding additional broth as needed.

5. Mix pasta and cheese

Stir in cooked pasta and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well until cheese is melted and everything is coated with cheese sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

5. Add ingredients and serve

Serve the taco pasta and pile on your favorite taco toppings!

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Make this dish your own with a few clever tweaks and swaps.

• Use whole wheat or protein pasta for extra nutrients.
• make it vegetarian By swapping out meat for plant-based crumbles or extra beans.
• Double the batch Freeze half for a quick snack another night—just remove the cheese and add it after reheating.
• Watch out for liquids: If the pasta seems dry, add more broth or reserved pasta water until it’s completely al dente.

Service concept

There’s no wrong way to enjoy Taco Pasta, but these sides and toppings are always a hit!

Store and reheat

Here’s how to keep your taco pasta fresh and delicious!

• Shop: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months (reserve cheese for best texture). Gently defrost and reheat, then stir in cheese before serving.
• Reheat: Add broth or water to a skillet and heat it to keep it delicious.