Save Pin A one-pan family-friendly dish blending the bold flavors of tacos with creamy cheesy pasta for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.
Growing up our weeknight dinners were all about easy comfort food and this cheesy taco pasta skillet quickly became a favorite at our house for its flavor and simple preparation.
Ingredients
- Ground beef (or ground turkey): 1 lb (450 g)
- Diced onion: 1 small
- Minced garlic: 2 cloves
- Taco seasoning: 2 tbsp (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Pasta (rotini, penne, or shells): 2 cups (8 oz / 225 g) uncooked short pasta
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies: 1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g), undrained
- Low-sodium broth: 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) chicken or beef broth
- Tomato sauce: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 1/2 cups (170 g)
- Sour cream: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Garnish (optional): Chopped fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, diced tomatoes
Instructions
- Brown the meat:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat cook the ground beef until browned breaking it apart as it cooks (about 4–5 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté aromatics:
- Add the diced onion and garlic; sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Season:
- Stir in taco seasoning salt and black pepper mixing well to coat the beef.
- Add pantry ingredients:
- Add uncooked pasta canned tomatoes (with their juices) broth and tomato sauce. Stir to combine.
- Cook pasta:
- Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 12–14 minutes stirring occasionally until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Make it cheesy:
- Turn off the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Finish with sour cream:
- Fold in the sour cream until well combined.
- Serve:
- Serve hot garnished with cilantro green onions or diced tomatoes if desired.
Save Pin Whenever I make this with my kids they love to add their own toppings at the table making it a fun and interactive family meal.
Required Tools
Large deep skillet with lid wooden spoon or spatula chefs knife and cutting board make preparation quick and easy.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese sour cream) and wheat (pasta). May contain soy depending on taco seasoning and broth.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 550. Total Fat: 27 g. Carbohydrates: 45 g. Protein: 32 g (per serving)
Save Pin Dig in while it's creamy and hot because this skillet dinner is best enjoyed freshly made with your choice of fun toppings.
Recipe FAQs
- → What pasta types work best in this dish?
Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or shells hold sauces well and work perfectly in this skillet.
- → Can ground turkey be substituted?
Yes, ground turkey can replace beef for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
- → How can I add more spice to the dish?
Include diced jalapeños with the onions or use a spicier taco seasoning for added heat.
- → Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta to keep the dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
- → What garnishes complement this skillet?
Fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, and diced tomatoes add color and fresh flavor contrasts.