why make this recipe
Taco Pasta is a fun and delicious twist on traditional tacos. It combines the comfort of pasta with the bold flavors of taco seasoning, creating a meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something hearty without spending too much time in the kitchen. Plus, it’s customizable to fit your taste — add your favorite toppings or extra ingredients to make it even better!
how to make Taco Pasta
Ingredients :
- 3 cups small shell pasta
- 1 pound ground beef (lean or extra lean)
- 1/2 cup onions (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced, optional)
- 1/4 cup taco seasoning
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Fresh cilantro (chopped, optional)
Directions :
Cook the Ground Beef: Start by placing a large frying pan on medium-high heat. Add your ground beef into the pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes or until it is no longer pink. Be sure to drain any excess fat for a healthier dish.
Add Onions and Garlic: Next, add the chopped onions and minced garlic (if you are using it) to the pan with the beef. Fry for about 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
Mix in Other Ingredients: Stir in the tomato sauce, taco seasoning, water, and small shell pasta, ensuring all pasta is coated with the sauce for even cooking.
Let It Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium and cover the pan loosely. Let it cook for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Add Cheese: When the pasta is cooked to your liking, stir in the shredded cheese and allow it to melt.
Serve It Up: Serve your Taco Pasta hot, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro if desired.
how to serve Taco Pasta
Taco Pasta is best served hot right after cooking. You can dish it out into bowls or plate it up for individual servings. For an extra touch, consider adding toppings like sliced jalapeños, sour cream, or avocado. These add-ons enhance the flavor and give a fresh feel to the dish. It also pairs nicely with a simple side salad or some tortilla chips for that full taco experience.
how to store Taco Pasta
If you have leftovers, Taco Pasta can be easily stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat it again, just reheat it in the microwave or on a stovetop. You may want to add a splash of water or a bit more tomato sauce to prevent it from drying out during reheating.
tips to make Taco Pasta
Use Lean Meat: For a healthier version, choose lean or extra-lean ground beef. Ground turkey or chicken can also be good substitutes to reduce fat content.
Customize Your Seasoning: If you like it spicy, consider adding some hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the mix. You can also adjust the amount of taco seasoning to suit your taste.
Mix Up the Cheese: Feel free to try different cheeses! If you want a creamier texture, consider using Queso Blanco or Monterey Jack cheese.
Add Veggies: Sneak in some veggies! Chopped bell peppers, corn, or black beans can add flavor, texture, and extra nutrition to your dish.
variation
Vegetarian Option: You can easily make Taco Pasta vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with black beans or lentils. This keeps the protein level high without meat.
Spicy Taco Pasta: For those who love heat, add diced jalapeños or a spoonful of diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the mix for a smoky kick.
FAQs
1. Can I make Taco Pasta ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the pasta and sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Just cook the pasta 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions to prevent it from becoming mushy when reheating.
2. What can I use instead of taco seasoning?
If you don’t have taco seasoning on hand, you can mix your own! Combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder for a quick substitute.
3. Is Taco Pasta freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Taco Pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience that combines the textures and tastes of two beloved dishes. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a meal prep option, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy your cooking and savor the flavors!
Print
Taco Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Beef, Optional Vegetarian
Description
A fun twist on traditional tacos, combining pasta with bold taco flavors for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 3 cups small shell pasta
- 1 pound ground beef (lean or extra lean)
- 1/2 cup onions (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced, optional)
- 1/4 cup taco seasoning
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Fresh cilantro (chopped, optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: Start by placing a large frying pan on medium-high heat. Add your ground beef into the pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes or until it is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Onions and Garlic: Add chopped onions and minced garlic (if using) to the pan with the beef. Fry for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
- Mix in Other Ingredients: Stir in the tomato sauce, taco seasoning, water, and small shell pasta, ensuring all pasta is coated.
- Let It Simmer: Reduce heat to medium, cover loosely, and let cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Cheese: Stir in shredded cheese and allow it to melt.
- Serve It Up: Serve the Taco Pasta hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Notes
Customize with toppings like jalapeños, sour cream, or avocado. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg