Cheesy Taco Pasta
This Cheesy Taco Pasta is a flavorful fusion of Tex-Mex and comfort food, all made in one pan. Featuring tender pasta shells, seasoned ground beef, gooey cheddar cheese, and zesty salsa, it’s a quick, satisfying dinner the whole family will love. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need something fast, hearty, and delicious.
Servings: 6
Calories: 432kcal
Ingredients
- ½ pound large pasta shells
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 yellow onion diced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ¾ cup water
- 1 cup jarred salsa
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Extra shredded cheese
- Crushed tortilla chips
- Sour cream
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the canola oil. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Drain excess fat, leaving about 1–2 tablespoons in the pan.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, dried oregano, Worcestershire sauce, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in the water and let the mixture simmer until the liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, followed by the salsa and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is fully combined and the cheese is melted.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese, crushed tortilla chips, sour cream, and chopped parsley, if desired.