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Taco Pasta


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  • Author: Ava
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Taco Pasta combines the bold flavors of tacos with the comfort of pasta in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Featuring seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and a zesty taco seasoning, this one-pot dish is a quick, satisfying, and customizable meal.


Ingredients

  1. 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
    12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni work great)
    1 tablespoon olive oil
    1 small onion, diced
    2 cloves garlic, minced
    1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
    1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
    1 cup beef broth (or chicken broth)
    1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
    1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
    Salt and pepper, to taste
    Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
    Optional toppings: Sliced jalapeños, diced avocado, salsa, or additional cheese

Instructions

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

  1. Cook the ground beef: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned and fully cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
  2. Sauté the onion and garlic: Add the diced onion to the skillet with the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the taco seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning, and add salt and pepper to taste. Add the diced tomatoes and beef broth, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  4. Combine the pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce.
  5. Add the creaminess: Stir in the sour cream and half of the shredded cheese, letting it melt into the mixture for a creamy, cheesy texture.
  6. Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and let it melt for 2-3 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
  7. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and any additional toppings you like, such as diced avocado, salsa, or jalapeños. Serve immediately.

Notes

  1. Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
  2. Add bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for extra flavor and nutrition.
  3. For extra spice, increase the taco seasoning or add chopped jalapeños.
  4. Use a variety of cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or queso fresco for a different flavor profile.
  5. For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add beans and veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 600
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 950mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg