Cheesy Taco Pasta: A One-Pot Wonder!

This easy, cheesy taco pasta combines all the flavors of your favorite tacos with comforting pasta—perfect for busy weeknights! Ready in 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-pot meal – Less dishes, more flavor!
Kid-approved – Cheesy, saucy, and packed with taco goodness.
Customizable – Add beans, corn, or swap the protein.
Meal-prep friendly – Tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (fusilli, penne, or shells)
• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey/chicken)
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• Optional Add-Ins:
  • 1 cup black beans
  • 1 cup corn
  • ½ cup salsa
  • Jalapeños for heat

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Brown the Beef

• In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain excess fat.

3. Sauté Veggies

• Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook 3-4 minutes until softened.

4. Add Seasonings & Tomatoes

• Stir in taco seasoning and cook 1 minute to bloom the spices.
• Add diced tomatoes and water. Simmer 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

5. Combine & Melt Cheese

• Add cooked pasta and toss to coat.
• Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top, cover, and let melt (2-3 minutes).

6. Serve!

• Garnish with:
  • Sliced avocado
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Lime wedges
  • Sour cream

Pro Tips

Extra Creamy? Stir in ½ cup heavy cream with the cheese.
Spicier? Use hot taco seasoning or add cayenne pepper.
Vegetarian? Swap beef for lentils or plant-based crumbles.
Make Ahead? Stores in the fridge for 3 days—reheat with a splash of water.

Serving Ideas

As a Main Dish: Serve with garlic bread or tortilla chips.
Lighter Option: Pair with a simple green salad.
Taco Night Upgrade: Serve in taco shells for a fun twist!

Why This Beats Plain Tacos

More filling – Pasta makes it hearty!
Less messy – No crumbling shells or dripping fillings.
Perfect for leftovers – Tastes amazing reheated.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Taco Pasta is the ultimate comfort food mashup—easy, cheesy, and packed with bold taco flavors. Perfect for busy families, college students, or anyone craving a quick, satisfying meal!

More Easy TikTok Recipes to Try:

• 4-Ingredient Heath Toffee Cookies – A sweet and crunchy treat that’s ready in no time!
• Fruity Pebbles Cookies – Fun, colorful, and perfect for dessert lovers.
• TikTok Baked Feta Pasta
• TikTok Potato Bake

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