Cheesy Taco Pasta
This Cheesy Taco Pasta is a quick, one-pan dinner that brings together the bold, zesty flavors of tacos with the comforting texture of cheesy pasta. Juicy ground beef, tender pasta shells, salsa, and melted cheddar cheese make this an easy and satisfying weeknight meal that the whole family will love.
Servings: 6
Calories: 432kcal
Ingredients
- ½ pound large pasta shells
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 yellow onion diced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ¾ cup water
- 1 cup jarred salsa
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Extra shredded cheese
- Crushed tortilla chips
- Sour cream
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the canola oil.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Drain excess fat, leaving 1–2 tablespoons in the pan.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in taco seasoning, dried oregano, Worcestershire sauce, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in the water and simmer until the liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir in the salsa and shredded cheddar cheese until everything is well combined and the cheese has melted.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese, crushed tortilla chips, sour cream, and chopped parsley if desired.