Description
Savory taco pasta blends Mexican and Italian cuisines in a quick, one-pan meal. Zesty spices, ground beef, and melted cheese create a comforting dinner you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
Aromatics and Additional Ingredients:
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish and Serving:
- 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Sizzle ground beef, diced onions, and minced garlic in a skillet over medium heat until meat turns golden brown, then discard accumulated grease.
- Sprinkle taco seasoning over the meat mixture, then introduce pasta, beef broth, and salsa. Allow the liquid to reach a robust boil, then lower temperature and let simmer for 12-15 minutes until pasta reaches perfect tenderness.
- Incorporate cream cheese and shredded cheddar, stirring continuously until both cheeses melt completely and create a smooth, velvety sauce that coats the pasta and meat evenly.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, ensuring balanced flavor throughout the dish.
- Finish by scattering fresh chopped cilantro across the top and serving with a generous dollop of cool sour cream on the side.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef or turkey for a healthier protein option that cuts down on excess fat.
- Substitute dairy-free cheese alternatives to make this recipe suitable for lactose-intolerant or vegan diets.
- For extra veggie boost, add diced bell peppers or corn during the meat cooking stage to increase nutritional value.
- Prep ingredients beforehand to streamline the cooking process and reduce overall kitchen time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg