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Creamy Taco Pasta Recipe – Easy One-Pot Dinner in 30 Minutes

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This creamy Taco Pasta combines seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, salsa, and melted cheese in a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s an easy, family-friendly dinner that brings together the best flavors of tacos and comforting pasta in one pot.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 oz. packet taco seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup milk
  • 8 oz. medium pasta shells, uncooked
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Shred the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses and set aside. Allow them to come to room temperature for smoother melting.
  2. Heat a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess grease.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and minced garlic, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the taco seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, and salsa. Mix thoroughly to coat the beef.
  5. Pour in the beef broth and milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  6. Add the uncooked pasta shells and stir well. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover partially, and cook for approximately 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender. Add a splash of broth if needed.
  7. Reduce the heat to low. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until completely melted and the sauce is creamy.
  8. Remove from the heat and allow the pasta to rest for a few minutes so the sauce thickens. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired and serve warm.

Notes

  • This is an adapted taco pasta recipe inspired by The Cozy Cook; ingredient quantities and nutrition are estimates rather than a verified transcription of the original.
  • Shred cheese from a block for the smoothest, creamiest sauce.
  • Ground turkey can replace ground beef for a lighter variation.
  • Use mild, medium, or hot salsa to adjust the spice level.
  • Medium pasta shells work well, but rotini or elbow macaroni can also be used. Cooking times may vary.
  • For extra heat, add diced jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
  • Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
  • Serve with sour cream, diced tomatoes, avocado, or chopped cilantro.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yumfamilyrecipes.com/creamy-taco-pasta-recipe-easy-one-pot-dinner-in-30-minutes/