If you’re looking for a delicious and easy meal that brings together the best of Mexican and Italian flavors, look no further than Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta! This hearty and flavorful dish combines the classic comfort of pasta with the bold flavors of taco seasoning, creamy Velveeta cheese, and the zesty kick from Rotel tomatoes. It’s a one-pot wonder that will become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation.
Why You’ll Love This “Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta”?
Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is everything you love about taco night with an added twist. This dish offers the familiar flavors of a taco but in the form of a comforting pasta dish that everyone in the family will enjoy. The combination of ground beef, taco seasoning, creamy cheese, and tender pasta creates a dish that is savory, cheesy, and satisfying.
What makes this dish even better is how easy it is to make. With minimal prep and only a few ingredients, you can have a filling meal on the table in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a quick dinner idea, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s versatile enough that you can adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences.
Ready to dive in and make this delicious meal? Let’s break it down!
What You’ll Need
This Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta requires just a few simple ingredients, many of which you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s everything you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds of ground beef – This will be the base of your dish. Ground beef adds protein and richness, making the dish hearty and filling.
- 1 box of small shells – Small shell pasta holds the cheesy sauce well, but you can use other types of pasta like rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni if you prefer.
- 1 pack of Velveeta cheese – This processed cheese is the secret ingredient that makes the pasta super creamy and smooth. It melts easily and gives the dish a luscious texture.
- A handful of sharp cheddar cheese – For added flavor and richness. Sharp cheddar complements the Velveeta cheese and enhances the cheesy factor.
- 2 packs of taco seasoning – This brings all the classic taco spices to the dish, including cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and paprika. It’s the key to giving this pasta that taco-inspired flavor.
- 1 can of original Rotel – Rotel is a brand of diced tomatoes with green chilies, and it adds a perfect level of acidity and spice to balance out the richness of the cheese.
- 1/2 cup of milk – Milk helps to make the cheese sauce creamy and smooth. You can use whole milk, 2% milk, or even a non-dairy alternative depending on your dietary preferences.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is as simple as following these easy steps. In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a dish that is both delicious and satisfying.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the small shell pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef to the pan and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is fully browned and no longer pink. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the beef to avoid a greasy dish.
Step 3: Add Taco Seasoning
Once the beef is cooked and drained, sprinkle the taco seasoning over the meat. Add the milk and the can of Rotel (with juices) to the pan. Stir everything together to combine, making sure the seasoning is evenly distributed. Let this simmer for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese
Next, add the Velveeta cheese to the skillet, cutting it into cubes to help it melt more evenly. Stir the cheese into the beef mixture until it is fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Beef Mixture
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring gently to coat the pasta evenly in the cheesy beef mixture. Sprinkle the sharp cheddar cheese on top and stir it into the pasta. Allow the cheese to melt, creating an extra layer of cheesy goodness.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is well combined and the cheese is melted, your Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is ready to serve! Spoon the pasta into bowls and garnish with any optional toppings like sour cream, chopped green onions, or shredded lettuce for extra flavor and freshness.
Tips for Success
To ensure that your Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Choose the right pasta – While small shells are ideal for this dish, other short pasta shapes like rotini or penne can also work well. Just make sure the pasta can hold up to the creamy sauce.
- Use lean ground beef – If you want to cut back on the fat content, use lean or extra-lean ground beef. However, if you’re not worried about the fat content, regular ground beef will add more flavor to the dish.
- Adjust the seasoning – Depending on your taste preferences and the brand of taco seasoning you’re using, you may want to adjust the amount of seasoning in the dish. If you like your tacos spicier, add a little extra chili powder or a dash of hot sauce.
- Don’t overcook the pasta – When cooking the pasta, be sure to follow the package instructions and don’t overcook it. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and will not hold up well in the final dish.
- Let the cheese melt slowly – Velveeta cheese melts easily, but if you add it too quickly or on high heat, it might seize up or become stringy. Add the cheese over medium-low heat and stir gently to ensure it melts smoothly into the sauce.
Variations to Try
While this recipe is fantastic as written, there are a few variations you can try to customize it to your liking.
- Add Vegetables – For a more balanced dish, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini. You can sauté them with the ground beef or stir them in after the cheese has melted.
- Spicy Taco Pasta – If you like a little heat, add a few dashes of hot sauce or some chopped jalapeños to the taco seasoning mixture. You can also use spicy Rotel or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to give the dish a kick.
- Ground Turkey or Chicken – For a leaner version, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. These alternatives will still provide the same texture, and the taco seasoning will give them plenty of flavor.
- Make it Gluten-Free – To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta and double-check that your taco seasoning is free from gluten. Most taco seasoning packets are gluten-free, but it’s always best to verify.
- Add a Crunchy Topping – For added texture, top the finished dish with some crushed tortilla chips, sliced avocado, or even some crumbled bacon. These toppings can add a new layer of flavor and crunch.
Storing and Reheating
Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat it:
- Storage: Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. If the pasta looks a bit dry, add a splash of milk or water to loosen up the sauce. You can also reheat it in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta? Yes, you can freeze this dish! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then heat on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I use a different type of cheese? While Velveeta cheese creates the creamy texture that is key to this dish, you can experiment with different cheeses like cream cheese, mozzarella, or even Monterey Jack for a slightly different flavor profile.
How can I make this dish spicier? If you love spicy food, try adding some diced jalapeños, a few dashes of hot sauce, or using spicy taco seasoning. Rotel’s diced tomatoes with green chilies will also add a touch of heat.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the dish a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it and enjoy!
The Final Word
Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is the ultimate comfort food with a zesty twist. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos or pasta, this dish combines the best of both worlds and is sure to become a family favorite. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a cheesy, savory, and satisfying meal that everyone will love!