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Taco Pasta Recipe

4.6 from 144 reviews

This Taco Pasta recipe combines flavorful ground beef, colorful vegetables, and cheesy pasta in one easy stovetop dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it features a savory blend of taco seasoning and tomato paste that infuses the pasta with bold Mexican-inspired flavors. Ready in under 40 minutes, it’s a hearty and family-friendly meal that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb. ButcherBox Ground Beef
  • 1/2 cup onion, chopped finely
  • ½ tablespoon minced garlic (about 2 cloves)
  • 2 cups red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (low sodium)
  • 3 cups medium shell pasta (about 10 oz)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pan: Spray a large pan or pot with olive oil spray and heat it over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes to ensure it’s properly heated before cooking.
  2. Cook the Beef and Vegetables: Add the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell peppers to the pan. Cook for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully cooked and no longer pink.
  3. Add Pasta and Seasonings: Stir in the dry pasta, low sodium taco seasoning, tomato paste, beef broth, and water. Mix everything well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
  4. Bring to Boil: Cover the pan with a lid and allow the mixture to come to a boil over medium-high heat. This should take about 5 minutes.
  5. Simmer the Pasta: After boiling, remove the lid and reduce the heat to medium. Stir the mixture every few minutes and let it simmer for 10 to 12 minutes or until the pasta is tender and the liquid has mostly absorbed and thickened.
  6. Add Cheese and Serve: Remove the pan from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  • Use low sodium beef broth and taco seasoning to control salt content.
  • Feel free to substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a different protein option.
  • Make sure to stir frequently once the pasta is simmering to prevent sticking or burning.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
  • Adding a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or diced avocado on top makes a great garnish for extra flavor.

Keywords: taco pasta, ground beef pasta, Mexican pasta recipe, one pot pasta, easy weeknight dinner