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This Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta brings together the flavors of tacos and creamy pasta in one comforting dish the whole family will adore. It is quick, easy, and loaded with rich, cheesy goodness making it a favorite weeknight meal.
I remember creating this dish on a whim when I needed to appease my picky eaters at home, and it instantly became a family-favorite dinner request.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 3 pounds essential for the hearty protein base opt for lean beef for less grease.
- Small pasta shells: 1 box ideal for soaking up cheesy sauces and taco flavors avoid overcooking for the best texture.
- Velveeta cheese: 1 block creates a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: 1 handful adds an additional punch of cheesy richness.
- Taco seasoning: 2 packs delivers bold authentic taco flavors.
- Rotel original: 1 can provides a touch of spiced tomatoes plus a little heat.
- Milk: 1/2 cup makes the sauce velvety smooth and easy to toss with the pasta.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the beef:
- Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Continue until browned completely. Drain off any excess grease for a cleaner sauce base and set the beef aside.
- Boil the pasta:
- Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the small pasta shells and cook as directed on the package until they are al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside ensuring they do not overcook for best texture.
- Melt the cheese:
- Using the skillet from the browned beef add Velveeta cheese and milk. Cook over medium heat stirring continuously to melt the cheese evenly until it becomes a smooth and creamy sauce.
- Combine pasta and beef:
- Return both the cooked pasta shells and browned ground beef to the skillet with the cheese sauce. Stir well ensuring every piece of pasta is coated in the creamy blend.
- Add taco flavor:
- Sprinkle in taco seasoning then add the can of Rotel including its liquid. Stir until all the spices and Rotel are evenly distributed throughout the dish.
- Incorporate sharp cheddar:
- Sprinkle a handful of sharp cheddar cheese over the mixture and stir until completely melted into the pasta and beef.
- Final serve:
- Immediately serve the pasta hot letting the flavors shine through and enjoy the creamy rich joy in every bite.
Velveeta is admittedly my secret weapon here. Its melting quality creates that silky sauce everyone loves while blending seamlessly with the sharp cheddar and taco seasoning for a savory bite that never disappoints. My kids just call it the "cheesy taco surprise" whenever they see it on the table.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave adding a splash of milk or broth to regain the creamy consistency.
Ingredient Substitutions
For a healthier option swap low-fat cheese and ground turkey in place of Velveeta and beef. Rotel can also be substituted with a can of plain diced tomatoes for a milder flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal or serve it as a hearty potluck dish that guarantees empty plates.
A deliciously creamy taco-inspired pasta dish the family will request again and again!
Recipe FAQs
- → What pasta shape works best for Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta?
Medium pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or medium shells work best as they catch the sauce and meat effectively. These shapes have ridges and crevices that hold the cheesy taco sauce and small bits of ground beef for the perfect bite.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta up to 2 days ahead. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent dryness, and top with fresh cheese during the final minutes of reheating.
- → How can I make Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta spicier?
To increase the heat level, add diced jalapeños or green chilies during cooking, use hot taco seasoning instead of mild, incorporate a few dashes of hot sauce, or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes into the mixture. You can also serve with sliced fresh jalapeños on top.
- → What are good side dishes to serve with Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta?
Complement this hearty main dish with a simple green salad, Mexican street corn, roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a side of black beans. For a lighter meal, serve smaller portions with a substantial side salad with avocado and lime dressing.
- → Can I substitute the ground beef with something else?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives work well as substitutes for ground beef. You can also use shredded chicken or even chorizo for a different flavor profile while maintaining the Mexican-inspired theme.
- → What cheeses work best in this dish?
A combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack provides the best melting quality and flavor. Other good options include Mexican blend cheese, pepper jack for extra spice, or quesadilla cheese for authentic flavor. Avoid hard aged cheeses that don't melt as smoothly.