Let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: cheesy taco pasta skillet! This dish has become a staple in our household because it’s not just delicious; it’s super quick to make, coming together in just about 30 minutes. I love how everything cooks in one skillet, so cleanup is a breeze—my kind of cooking! The combination of cheesy goodness and taco flavors just makes my heart sing. Plus, it’s a hit with the whole family, from the pickiest eaters to my spice-loving partner. Trust me, once you try this cheesy taco pasta skillet, it’ll be on your regular dinner rotation too!
Ingredients for Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this cheesy taco pasta skillet absolutely scrumptious! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni: This is the pasta that’ll soak up all those delicious flavors. You can use whole wheat or gluten-free macaroni if you prefer!
- 1 lb ground beef: I love using lean ground beef for this recipe, but feel free to swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- 1 packet taco seasoning: This brings all the flavor! I usually go for a low-sodium option, but any taco seasoning you love will work just fine.
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz): The tomatoes add a nice juiciness to the dish. If you want a kick, I recommend using diced tomatoes with green chilies!
- 2 cups beef broth: This is what helps cook the macaroni and keeps everything nice and saucy. Homemade or store-bought, either works great!
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: The star of the show! I like to use sharp cheddar for an extra punch of flavor, but any melty cheese you love will do.
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned): Adds a pop of sweetness and color! If using frozen, just toss it in without thawing.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: For that creamy finish! You can use Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative, and it still tastes amazing.
Make sure you’ve got everything prepped and ready to go, and then we’ll dive into the cooking process. You’re going to love how simple and delicious this all comes together!
How to Prepare Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet
Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—cooking! This cheesy taco pasta skillet comes together in just a few easy steps, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how quickly it all happens.
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
First things first, grab a skillet and set it over medium heat. Add the ground beef and start breaking it up with a spatula. You’ll want to cook it until it’s nicely browned, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on it; it’s done when there’s no more pink in sight and it’s beautifully browned. This step gives the beef a lovely flavor base for our dish!
Step 2: Add Taco Seasoning
Once your ground beef is perfectly browned, it’s time to drain any excess fat. Just tilt the skillet slightly and let the fat run off, but be careful not to lose any of that delicious beef! After that, sprinkle in the taco seasoning and mix it all together. Stir for about a minute to really let those spices infuse into the beef. Trust me, your kitchen is going to smell incredible!
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Now, let’s get those juicy flavors in! Add the can of diced tomatoes (don’t drain them!) and pour in the beef broth. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. This is where the magic starts to happen—the beef, tomatoes, and broth create a savory sauce that’ll coat our pasta beautifully.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Next, it’s time to add the elbow macaroni. Stir it in and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes. This is crucial—the pasta will soak up all those flavors and cook to perfection. Just check it occasionally, and you’ll know it’s ready when it’s al dente and there’s just a bit of saucy goodness left in the skillet!
Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Cream
Once your pasta is cooked, stir in the corn, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix it all together until the cheese melts and everything is creamy and delicious. This is my favorite part—the cheese makes it so comforting and rich! If you want a little extra kick, you could toss in some jalapeños here, too.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Now comes the best part—serving it up! Scoop generous portions into bowls and feel free to top with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions for a pop of color and flavor. This cheesy taco pasta skillet is best enjoyed hot, so dig in while it’s still warm! I promise, everyone will be coming back for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This cheesy taco pasta skillet comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
- One-Skillet Cleanup: I just love how everything is made in one skillet, which means less mess and fewer dishes to wash—my kind of cooking!
- Family-Friendly: It’s a hit with kids and adults alike. The cheesy flavors and fun taco twist make it a meal everyone looks forward to.
- Flavorful: Packed with bold taco seasoning, juicy tomatoes, and creamy cheese, each bite is bursting with deliciousness!
- Versatile: This recipe can easily be customized to fit various diets. Swap in ground turkey for a lighter option or add extra veggies for a nutritious twist.
- Comfort Food: It’s hearty, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying—perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
Tips for Success
To ensure your cheesy taco pasta skillet turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my tried-and-true tips that I’ve learned along the way:
- Don’t rush the browning: Make sure to brown the ground beef well. This step builds flavor, so take your time to get that nice golden color. It makes a world of difference!
- Watch the pasta: Keep an eye on the macaroni while it simmers. You don’t want it to get mushy. Stir occasionally and taste-test a minute or two before the time’s up to ensure it’s just right.
- Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to taste and tweak the seasoning as you go! If you like it spicier, add more taco seasoning or some hot sauce. This is your dish—make it your own!
- Use quality broth: The beef broth is key to the overall flavor. If you can, use homemade or a high-quality store-bought brand for the best results.
- Mix in the cheese off the heat: For a creamier texture, stir in the cheese after taking the skillet off the heat. This prevents it from overcooking and getting rubbery.
- Let it rest: After serving, if you have leftovers, let the dish sit for a few minutes before you dive in. This allows the flavors to meld even more, making it taste even better!
With these simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this cheesy taco pasta skillet. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of things! This cheesy taco pasta skillet is not only delicious but also packed with a good balance of nutrients. Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving based on standard measurements:
- Calories: 480
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 25g
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But overall, it’s a hearty meal that keeps you satisfied without being overly indulgent. Enjoy every cheesy bite, knowing you’re fueling your body well!
FAQ Section
Got questions about my cheesy taco pasta skillet? No worries! Here are some of the most common queries I get, along with my answers to help you out:
Can I make this cheesy taco pasta skillet ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish is great for meal prep. Just cook it, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until it’s warmed through.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While elbow macaroni is my go-to, you can swap in any pasta shape you love. Just keep an eye on the cooking time since different pastas have different cooking durations. Just make sure they’re short enough to cook in the skillet!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! To keep it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free elbow macaroni and check that your taco seasoning is also gluten-free. It’s a delicious option for everyone!
What can I add for extra veggies?
Great question! You can easily sneak in some chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach. Just toss them in when you add the tomatoes and broth so they have time to cook through. It’s a fantastic way to boost the nutrition without sacrificing flavor!
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you’re looking for a kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce when you mix in the taco seasoning. You can also use spicy taco seasoning for an extra boost. Spice it up to your heart’s content!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your cheesy taco pasta skillet is super easy, and it tastes just as good the next day! First, let it cool down a bit after cooking. Once it’s at room temperature, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure you seal it well to prevent any odors from other foods creeping in!
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is a breeze. I recommend warming it up on the stovetop for the best results. Just add a splash of beef broth or water to the skillet to help revive the creamy texture, and heat it over medium-low heat until it’s warmed through. Stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly.
If you’re in a hurry, you can also pop it in the microwave! Just place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it (to prevent splatters!), and heat on high for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Keep an eye on it, because microwaves can vary in power.
And there you have it—easy storage and reheating tips to keep your cheesy taco pasta skillet delicious for days! Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Print
Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet: 30-Minute Family Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A quick and easy cheesy taco pasta dish cooked in one skillet.
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat.
- Drain excess fat and add taco seasoning.
- Add diced tomatoes and beef broth to the skillet.
- Stir in elbow macaroni and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until pasta is cooked.
- Stir in corn, sour cream, and cheese until melted.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- For extra spice, add jalapeños.
- Use ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Top with fresh cilantro or green onions.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: cheesy taco pasta skillet, one skillet pasta, easy taco dinner
