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Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet

Section: Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion

This one-pot cheesy taco pasta skillet blends hearty pasta, seasoned beef, tomatoes, and melty cheese into a comforting, Tex-Mex–inspired meal. It’s ready in about 30 minutes and easy to customize with corn, beans, peppers, or jalapeños. Perfect for busy nights, it requires minimal cleanup while delivering bold flavor. Serve with fresh toppings like avocado, sour cream, or cilantro to make it your own. It’s satisfying, budget-friendly, and sure to become a weeknight favorite.

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Published By Ioana
Updated on Sat, 21 Jun 2025 17:10:10 GMT
A bowl of pasta with meat and cheese. Bookmark
A bowl of pasta with meat and cheese. | ioanacooks.com

This one pot cheesy taco pasta skillet has been my go to when I need a comforting dinner fast with minimal cleanup. It is bold creamy and perfect for those nights when the fridge is nearly empty yet something hearty is still expected at the table.

I first made this on a weeknight when I was short on time and ingredients and it became an instant family favorite

Ingredients

  • Ground beef: adds rich savory flavor choose lean cuts to avoid extra grease
  • Taco seasoning: brings bold Tex Mex flavor homemade blends offer more control
  • Pasta: acts as the hearty base rotini or elbow macaroni cling to sauce best
  • Diced tomatoes with juice: help form the sauce fire roasted adds smokiness
  • Beef broth: deepens the savory taste go with low sodium to manage salt
  • Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend: finishes the dish with creamy richness shred fresh if possible
  • Canned corn: adds sweet contrast and color drain well before using
  • Black beans: boost protein and add texture choose no salt added varieties
  • Bell pepper: adds a mild crunch dice small for quick even cooking
  • Sliced jalapeños: offer a kick of heat adjust to your spice preference

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat cook ground beef for about eight minutes stirring frequently to break it up and brown evenly then drain any grease to avoid an oily base
Add Seasoning:
Sprinkle taco seasoning over the browned beef and stir thoroughly to coat the heat helps the spices bloom and infuse the meat
Incorporate Pasta and Liquids:
Add the dry pasta diced tomatoes with juices and beef broth stir to evenly distribute and submerge the pasta to ensure even cooking
Simmer to Tender:
Bring the mixture to a low boil then reduce heat to low cover and simmer for twelve to fifteen minutes stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and check pasta for tenderness most of the liquid should absorb
Add Cheese:
Turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted this makes the sauce creamy and smooth without overcooking the pasta
Rest and Serve:
Let the skillet sit uncovered for five minutes this helps the mixture thicken and the flavors settle add toppings like avocado or cilantro if desired
A close up of a delicious cheesy taco pasta skillet. Bookmark
A close up of a delicious cheesy taco pasta skillet. | ioanacooks.com

One of my favorite moments is stirring in the cheese and watching it melt into the hot pasta it smells amazing and reminds me of my daughter calling it taco night pasta

Storage Tips

Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container Refrigerate for up to three days Reheat gently with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce You can also freeze individual portions and thaw overnight in the fridge before warming

Ingredient Substitutions

Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version Gluten free pasta works well if you monitor cook time Check your taco seasoning label to avoid hidden gluten For dairy free needs choose a meltable plant based cheese and know it may not be as creamy

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with a crisp romaine salad tossed in lime vinaigrette Warm tortillas or toasted garlic bread are great for scooping Guacamole or avocado slices offer creamy contrast on top

A close up of a cheesy taco pasta skillet. Bookmark
A close up of a cheesy taco pasta skillet. | ioanacooks.com

Cultural Context

Blending American comfort with Mexican flavor this Tex Mex fusion celebrates both culinary traditions It is the kind of recipe you find in family kitchens because it is easy adaptable and deeply satisfying

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

→ Can I freeze cheesy taco pasta?

Absolutely. Let it cool fully, freeze in portions, and thaw overnight before reheating on the stove or microwave.

→ What cheese works best?

Freshly shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend melt beautifully and enhance the dish's creaminess.

→ How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?

Simmer until just al dente, stir occasionally, and allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving.

→ Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and be sure your taco seasoning is free of hidden gluten sources.

Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet

One-pot cheesy taco pasta with bold Tex-Mex flavors and creamy richness. Fast, hearty, and satisfying.

Time Needed to Prep
10 minutes
Cooking Duration
20 minutes
Overall Time
30 minutes
Published By: Ioana

Category of Recipe: Main Dishes

Preparation Difficulty: Easy to Make

Type of Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Number of Portions: 6 How Many It Serves (1 large skillet meal)

Dietary Preferences: ~

Ingredients You'll Need

→ Main Ingredients

Ingredient 01 1 pound lean ground beef
Ingredient 02 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
Ingredient 03 8 ounces elbow macaroni or rotini pasta
Ingredient 04 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with juice
Ingredient 05 2 cups beef broth, low sodium
Ingredient 06 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese

→ Optional Add-Ins

Ingredient 07 1 cup canned corn, drained
Ingredient 08 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
Ingredient 09 1 small bell pepper, diced
Ingredient 10 1 jalapeño, sliced

Steps to Follow

Step 01

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, about 8 minutes. Stir to crumble evenly and drain excess grease.

Step 02

Stir in taco seasoning and mix until the beef is evenly coated and spices are fragrant.

Step 03

Add dry pasta, diced tomatoes with juice, and beef broth. Stir well to ensure pasta is submerged.

Step 04

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.

Step 05

Turn off heat and stir in shredded cheese until fully melted and creamy.

Step 06

Let the skillet sit uncovered for 5 minutes to thicken. Top with desired garnishes and serve warm.

Extra Tips

  1. Resting the dish before serving allows the sauce to thicken and cling to the pasta.
  2. Fire-roasted tomatoes add an extra layer of flavor if available.
  3. Use freshly shredded cheese for best melt and texture.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large nonstick skillet with lid
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Colander (for draining optional beans or corn)

Allergen Information

Carefully check food labels for allergens and consult an expert if you're uncertain.
  • Contains dairy from cheese
  • Contains gluten from pasta

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Remember, these values are for guidance only and shouldn't replace advice from a professional.
  • Calories Per Serving: 520
  • Total Fat: 28 grams
  • Carbohydrate Amount: 45 grams
  • Protein Amount: 26 grams