Name: Cheesy Taco Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients: 8 oz rotini pasta; 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 cup water; 1 oz taco seasoning; 1 1/2 cups salsa; 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese, divided

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Cheesy Taco Pasta is the ultimate comfort dinner when you want bold flavor without extra effort. This hearty pasta combines seasoned beef, tender rotini, salsa, and melted cheese into one satisfying skillet. If you love a simple 5 ingredient dinner, this recipe delivers big taste in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, picky eaters, and anyone craving a cozy, cheesy dish that feels homemade yet effortless.

Story

I first made Cheesy Taco Pasta on a night when I needed something fast, filling, and family-friendly. I had ground beef in the fridge, a box of pasta in the pantry, and taco seasoning ready to go. Instead of making traditional tacos, I decided to turn those flavors into a creamy, cheesy pasta skillet.

Since then, Cheesy Taco Pasta has become one of my favorite weeknight staples. It combines everything I love about a taco skillet with the comfort of pasta. The salsa adds freshness, the seasoning gives bold flavor, and the melted Mexican cheese ties everything together beautifully.

Whenever I need an easy dinner that feels hearty and satisfying, I make Cheesy Taco Pasta. It works perfectly as a quick 30 minute meal, and it tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

8 oz rotini pasta
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup water
1 oz taco seasoning
1 1/2 cups salsa
2 cups shredded Mexican cheese, divided

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini and cook according to package directions until al dente. Stir occasionally so the pasta cooks evenly. Once finished, drain well and set aside.

Meanwhile, measure your salsa, taco seasoning, and cheese so everything stays ready for quick assembly. Shred cheese if needed to help it melt smoothly and evenly.

Cooking Instructions

Place a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook while crumbling it with a spoon. Stir frequently until the meat browns completely. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too heavy.

Next, add the taco seasoning and water directly to the cooked beef. Stir thoroughly so the seasoning coats every piece. Let it simmer until the water evaporates and the beef becomes well seasoned.

Add the drained pasta to the pot along with the salsa. Stir everything together until evenly combined. Then mix in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and creates a creamy coating.

Remove the pot from heat. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese over the top. Cover briefly and allow the residual heat to melt the cheese. Serve immediately while hot and bubbly.

Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not overcook the pasta. Slightly firm pasta holds texture better once mixed with sauce and cheese. Also, drain excess grease from the beef to prevent a greasy finish. Finally, avoid adding all the cheese at once, because layering it creates a better melt and texture.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

Choose a bold salsa for deeper flavor. Chunky salsa adds texture, while smoother salsa creates a creamier consistency. You can also add a pinch of chili powder or cumin for extra warmth. If you want more heat, use spicy taco seasoning or hot salsa.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Serve Cheesy Taco Pasta straight from the skillet for a comforting family-style meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream if desired. This dish pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or warm garlic bread.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each, until heated through. Add a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce while reheating.

Conclusion

Cheesy Taco Pasta brings together bold taco flavors and creamy pasta comfort in one simple skillet meal. It works perfectly as an easy dinner, a satisfying ground beef pasta, or a fast family favorite. Because it uses minimal ingredients and comes together quickly, you can make it anytime you need a reliable, crowd-pleasing dish.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Cheesy Taco Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Cheesy Taco Pasta ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently with a splash of water to maintain creaminess.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. While rotini works well because it holds sauce nicely, penne or shells also perform beautifully in this taco skillet recipe.

Can I make this recipe without beef?

You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. You can even use plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian twist while keeping the taco flavor intact.