Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta (Print Version)

Pasta shells, seasoned beef, creamy cheese, and zesty Rotel combine for a hearty, flavorful meal.

# Ingredients:

→ Protein

01 - 3 pounds ground beef

→ Pasta

02 - 1 box small pasta shells

→ Dairy

03 - 1 block Velveeta cheese
04 - 1 handful sharp cheddar cheese
05 - 1/2 cup whole milk

→ Seasoning

06 - 2 packs taco seasoning

→ Vegetables

07 - 1 can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies

# Steps:

01 - In a large skillet set over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, until thoroughly browned. Drain off any excess fat and set the cooked beef aside.
02 - Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add the small pasta shells and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside.
03 - In the same skillet used for the beef, combine the Velveeta cheese and whole milk. Heat over medium, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and a smooth sauce forms.
04 - Add the drained pasta shells and browned ground beef to the skillet with the cheese sauce. Stir well to evenly coat all ingredients with the sauce.
05 - Sprinkle in the taco seasoning packets and add the can of Rotel, including the juices. Stir thoroughly to evenly distribute the seasonings and tomatoes throughout the mixture.
06 - Scatter the sharp cheddar cheese over the pasta mixture. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated.
07 - Ladle the hot, cheesy taco pasta into bowls and serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - For best texture, avoid overcooking the pasta; it should remain slightly firm to hold up in the cheese sauce.