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Taco Pasta Recipe

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4.1 from 12 reviews

This flavorful Taco Pasta recipe combines the spiced zest of taco seasoning with hearty ground beef, fire-roasted tomatoes, and tender pasta for a comforting and easy one-pot meal. Topped with sharp cheddar cheese and your choice of garnishes like Greek yogurt, jalapeños, and fresh cilantro, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that brings together Mexican-inspired flavors with classic pasta goodness.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 tablespoons taco seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups beef or chicken stock
  • 1 pound pasta of choice
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Toppings

  • Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • Jalapeños, sliced
  • Fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Sauté Onions: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until it softens and becomes fragrant.
  2. Cook Ground Beef and Season: Add the ground beef, minced garlic, and taco seasoning to the pot. Stir frequently and cook for around 5 minutes until the beef is cooked through and evenly coated with seasoning.
  3. Add Tomato Paste and Tomatoes: Stir in the tomato paste to coat the meat and onions thoroughly. Then add the fire-roasted diced tomatoes and beef or chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  4. Simmer Pasta: Once boiling, add your pasta of choice. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15 to 18 minutes or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has evaporated.
  5. Finish with Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar until melted and evenly distributed.
  6. Serve and Garnish: Plate the taco pasta and top with Greek yogurt or sour cream, sliced jalapeños, and fresh cilantro as desired for added creaminess and a fresh, spicy kick.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef for a leaner option.
  • If you prefer a vegetarian version, use plant-based ground meat and vegetable stock.
  • Adjust the spiciness by modifying the amount of jalapeños or taco seasoning used.
  • The type of pasta can be varied according to preference—short pasta like penne or rotini works best to hold the sauce.
  • For a creamier dish, add a splash of cream or extra sour cream when stirring in the cheese.