Beef Taco Pasta Skillet Recipe

Introduction

This Beef Taco Pasta Skillet is a deliciously easy one-pan meal that combines the bold flavors of taco seasoning with hearty pasta and ground beef. Perfect for busy weeknights, it cooks up quickly and satisfies the whole family with cheesy, comforting goodness.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 8 ounces uncooked pasta (elbow or shells)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning (pork-free)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or blend)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Step 2: Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
3. Step 3: Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the cooked beef. Stir well to coat the meat with the spices.
4. Step 4: Pour in the beef broth and the entire can of diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Step 5: Add the uncooked pasta directly into the skillet and stir to combine with the beef and liquid.
6. Step 6: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover with a lid and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
7. Step 7: Once the pasta is cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet again and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes. For extra gooey cheese, add more or broil briefly until bubbly and golden.
8. Step 8: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired and serve hot with your favorite toppings like sour cream, avocado slices, or jalapeños.

Tips & Variations

• Use a blend of cheeses such as cheddar and Monterey Jack for extra flavor and meltiness.
• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Add chopped bell peppers or corn to the skillet for added veggies and color.
• Use gluten-free pasta if needed to make this dish gluten-free.
• If you prefer spicier flavors, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or serve with sliced jalapeños.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if the pasta seems dry when reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, elbow macaroni, shells, penne, or any small pasta shape works well. Just ensure the pasta cooks fully in the liquid while simmering.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the skillet up to the point before adding cheese and refrigerate. When ready, reheat, add cheese, and melt before serving for best results.

Beef Taco Pasta Skillet Recipe

Print Recipe

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4.5 from 71 reviews

This Beef Taco Pasta Skillet is a delicious one-pan meal combining seasoned ground beef with pasta, tomatoes, and melted cheese. It’s a quick and hearty fusion dish that brings together the bold flavors of taco seasoning with comforting pasta, perfect for a family dinner or easy weeknight meal.

• Author: Ruby
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mexican-American Fusion

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 8 ounces uncooked pasta (elbow or shells)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning (pork-free)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or blend)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Cook the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Season the beef: Sprinkle taco seasoning evenly over cooked beef. Stir well to combine and coat the meat thoroughly with spices.
4. Add liquids and tomatoes: Pour in beef broth and undrained diced tomatoes. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet bottom for extra flavor.
5. Add pasta and cook: Add the uncooked pasta directly to the skillet. Stir to combine with the beef mixture. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until pasta is tender and liquid mostly absorbed.
6. Add cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top of the pasta mixture. Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes. For extra gooeyness, add more cheese or briefly broil until bubbly and golden.
7. Season and serve: Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot with optional toppings like sour cream, avocado slices, or jalapeños for extra flavor and heat.

Notes

• You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
• Elbow macaroni or small shell pasta works best to absorb the flavors.
• To make it spicier, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the skillet when adding the tomatoes.
• Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat nicely on the stovetop or microwave.
• For a cheesy crust finish, place under the broiler for 1-2 minutes after adding cheese, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Keywords: beef taco pasta skillet, taco pasta, one-pan dinner, ground beef skillet, easy weeknight meal, Mexican-inspired pasta