Save A one-pan, family-friendly dish blending the bold flavors of tacos with creamy, cheesy pasta for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.
My family loves when I make this cheesy taco pasta skillet. It brings everyone to the table quickly, and the kids always ask for seconds. The fusion of creamy, cheesy pasta and zesty taco filling is always a hit for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- Ground beef (or turkey): 1 lb (450 g), cooked and crumbled
- Onion: 1 small, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Taco seasoning: 2 tbsp, use store-bought or homemade
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Pasta: 2 cups (8 oz / 225 g) short pasta (rotini, penne, or shells), uncooked
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies: 1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g), undrained
- Broth: 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) low-sodium chicken or beef broth
- Tomato sauce: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Cheddar cheese: 1 1/2 cups (170 g), shredded
- Sour cream: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Cilantro (optional): Chopped, for garnish
- Green onions (optional): Sliced, for garnish
- Diced tomatoes (optional): For garnish
Instructions
- Brown the meat:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef until browned and crumbly (about 4–5 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
- Soften vegetables:
- Add diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until starting to soften and smell fragrant.
- Season:
- Sprinkle taco seasoning, salt, and black pepper over the beef mixture. Stir to coat evenly.
- Add pasta and liquids:
- Add uncooked pasta, canned tomatoes (with juices), broth, and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer:
- Bring mixture to a boil. Lower heat, cover, and simmer for 12–14 minutes, stirring a few times, until pasta is tender and liquid mostly absorbed.
- Add cheese:
- Turn off heat. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Finish with sour cream:
- Fold in sour cream for richness.
- Serve:
- Spoon hot skillet pasta onto plates. Garnish with cilantro, green onions, and diced tomatoes if desired.
Save My kids always request this meal for their birthday dinners because it feels both comforting and exciting. Even picky eaters enjoy building their own perfect bowl with the garnishes on top.
Substitutions & Variations
Try ground turkey or plant-based crumbles instead of beef. Swap out the cheese or use a blend like Monterey Jack for a different flavor twist. Adjust the heat level by adding jalapeños or leaving out the green chilies if serving to children.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this skillet with a crisp salad or simple Mexican-style rice. A chilled Mexican lager or fruity iced tea makes the meal complete for adults. Don&t forget the fresh garnishes for added flavor and crunch.
Storing & Reheating
Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or microwave in short bursts, stirring between each interval to keep it creamy.
Save This skillet dinner makes busy nights easier and tastier. Each bite bursts with flavor and cheesy goodness for the whole family to enjoy.
Kitchen Guide
- → Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner substitute without sacrificing flavor.
- → What pasta types work best for this dish?
Short pasta like rotini, penne, or shells hold sauce nicely and cook evenly in the skillet.
- → How can I make it spicier?
Add a diced jalapeño with the onions or increase the taco seasoning for extra heat.
- → Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Absolutely, using gluten-free pasta provides a safe alternative while keeping the dish tasty.
- → What garnishes enhance the flavor?
Fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, or diced tomatoes add brightness and freshness when served.
- → Can this be prepared ahead?
It’s best served fresh, but leftovers reheat well, maintaining creamy texture and flavor.