Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet

A one-pan, family-friendly dish blending the bold flavors of tacos with creamy, cheesy pasta for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.

This cheesy taco pasta skillet has become my go-to on busy nights when everyone wants something comforting but I dont want a lot of cleanup. Its always a hit with my kids, and even picky eaters cant resist the cheesy goodness!

Ingredients

• Ground beef (or ground turkey): 1 lb (450 g)
• Onion: 1 small, diced
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Taco seasoning: 2 tbsp, store-bought or homemade
• Salt: 1/2 tsp
• Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
• Pasta: 2 cups (8 oz / 225 g) uncooked short pasta like rotini, penne or shells
• Diced tomatoes with green chilies: 1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g), undrained
• Chicken or beef broth: 1 1/2 cups (360 ml), low-sodium
• Tomato sauce: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
• Cheddar cheese: 1 1/2 cups (170 g) shredded
• Sour cream: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
• Garnish (optional): Chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, diced tomatoes

Instructions

Brown the meat:

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks (about 4–5 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.

Sauté vegetables:

Add diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Season:

Stir in taco seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the beef.

Add pasta & liquids:

Add uncooked pasta, canned tomatoes (with juices), broth, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine.

Simmer:

Bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 12–14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.

Cheese & sour cream:

Turn off heat. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Fold in sour cream until well combined.

Garnish & serve:

Serve hot, garnished with cilantro, green onions, or diced tomatoes if desired.

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Last Friday, I made this for a family movie night and everyone went back for seconds. Its a warm memory tied to comfort food simplicity.

Make It Your Own

Swap in ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a different protein. Adjust the seasoning for extra heat or keep it mild for little ones.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this taco pasta with a crisp green salad or corn on the cob. For adult gatherings, a chill Mexican lager complements the bold flavors.

Storage & Reheating

Leftovers store well for up to three days in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to maintain creaminess.

Save

With cheese, spice, and hearty pasta, this skillet is sure to please. Enjoy a satisfying dinner made in just one pan!

Kitchen Guide

→ Can I substitute ground turkey for beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well as a lighter alternative, offering a similar texture and flavor when cooked with the seasoning blend.

→ What types of pasta are best for this dish?

Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or shells hold the sauce nicely and cook evenly within the skillet.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add diced jalapeño during the onion sauté or increase the amount of taco seasoning to enhance heat levels.

→ Can I prepare this meal gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta to accommodate gluten sensitivities without affecting flavor or texture.

→ What are good garnishes for serving?

Fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, and diced tomatoes add bright, fresh notes that complement the rich, cheesy base.