Description
This One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta recipe is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines seasoned ground beef, tangy salsa, and tender rotini pasta all cooked together in a single skillet. Topped with melted Mexican-style cheese and optional fresh toppings, it’s a simple, delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Pinch of black pepper
- 1 ounce packet taco seasoning (or about 3 1/2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup jarred mild salsa
- 8 ounces uncooked rotini pasta
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican-style cheese
Optional Toppings
- Chopped tomatoes
- Avocado slices
- Crushed tortilla chips
- Chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat Skillet: Heat a large deep skillet over medium heat to prepare for cooking the beef.
- Cook Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Stir occasionally while cooking until the beef is fully browned and cooked through.
- Drain Fat: Carefully drain off any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily.
- Add Seasoning and Liquids: Stir the taco seasoning into the cooked beef. Then add the water, salsa, and uncooked rotini pasta, mixing everything together.
- Bring to Boil: Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
- Simmer Pasta: Once boiling, stir the mixture again, cover the skillet with a lid, and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Add Cheese: Turn off the heat, then stir in the shredded Mexican-style cheese until melted and creamy throughout.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish and season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
- Serve: Plate the taco pasta and garnish with your choice of optional toppings like chopped tomatoes, avocado slices, crushed tortilla chips, and fresh cilantro for extra flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, use medium or hot salsa and taco seasoning.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the pasta with gluten-free noodles.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water if the pasta seems dry.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
