If you’re craving a weeknight dinner that’s as comforting as it is crowd-pleasing, Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is about to become your new go-to favorite. Imagine the bold flavors of classic tacos—savory beef, zesty salsa, and all the fixings—melded with tender pasta and melty cheddar cheese. This dish brings together everything you love about taco night and pasta in one irresistible, one-pot meal that’s quick enough for busy evenings, but so crave-worthy you’ll want to make it again and again.

Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of everyday ingredients, Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta comes together in a snap. Each component brings something special to the party, from hearty texture to bursts of flavor and vibrant color.

Ground beef: Provides a rich, savory base that soaks up all the taco spices beautifully.
Pasta (rotini or shells): The perfect shape to trap all that cheesy, saucy goodness in every bite.
Onion: Adds sweetness and depth once sautéed with the beef.
Garlic: Infuses the dish with a subtle, aromatic kick.
Taco seasoning: Packs in all the signature taco flavors—use a packet or your favorite homemade blend.
Salsa: Brings tang, spice, and a little bit of brightness to the sauce.
Water: Helps the sauce come together and keeps the mixture creamy.
Black beans: Add heartiness and an earthy flavor, plus a boost of plant-based protein.
Frozen corn: Lends a pop of color and a hint of sweetness.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the pasta for that ultra-creamy, gooey finish everyone loves.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
Chopped fresh cilantro (optional): Adds a fresh, herbal note for the perfect finishing touch.

How to Make Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in your rotini or shells and cook them until just al dente—you want them tender with a little bite, since they’ll soak up more flavor in the sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside; it’s going to get deliciously coated in cheesy taco goodness in just a bit.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet or deep pot, add the ground beef and cook over medium heat. Break it up with a spoon as it browns, making sure to get the meat nice and crumbly. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off so your Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta doesn’t turn out greasy.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic right into the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, just until the onion is soft and fragrant. This step builds a layered flavor base that makes the final dish taste like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Step 4: Season and Simmer

Sprinkle in your taco seasoning, pour in the salsa, and add the water. Give everything a good stir so the beef gets evenly coated in all those zesty spices. Toss in the black beans and frozen corn, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble away for a few minutes so the flavors can meld together.

Step 5: Stir in Pasta and Cheese

Lower the heat and add your cooked pasta to the skillet. Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until everything is combined and the cheese melts into a creamy, irresistible sauce. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. The finished Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta should be rich, saucy, and gloriously cheesy.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Right before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Scoop generous portions into bowls and dig right in while it’s hot and bubbly!

How to Serve Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta

Garnishes

For that authentic taco flair, don’t skip the garnishes! A handful of chopped cilantro adds a lovely herbal note, while extra shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, or even a dollop of sour cream can make each bowl feel extra special. For spice lovers, a few slices of fresh jalapeño never hurt.

Side Dishes

Pair your Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in lime vinaigrette, or set out crunchy tortilla chips and guacamole for a fun, Tex-Mex-inspired dinner spread. If you want to keep things simple, classic steamed veggies or a side of Mexican street corn are always winners.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful twist, serve the pasta in individual ramekins topped with a sprinkle of cheese and broil until bubbly. Or, scoop it into taco shells for “taco pasta boats”—the kids will love it! This dish is also a hit at potlucks, where it can be kept warm in a slow cooker for easy serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors deepen overnight, making each reheated bowl just as satisfying as the first.

Freezing

If you want to stash some away for another busy night, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep for up to three months. Just note that the texture of the pasta may soften a bit once thawed, but the taste will still be spot on.

Reheating

To reheat, pop leftovers into the microwave or warm them gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen up the sauce. Stir occasionally until hot and creamy, then top with fresh cilantro or a little extra cheese if you have it.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While rotini and shells grab onto the cheesy sauce best, any short pasta shape like penne or fusilli will work. Just cook it until al dente and follow the recipe as written.

Is there a way to make this vegetarian?

Definitely—just swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or extra black beans. You’ll still get all those classic taco flavors, minus the meat.

How can I make Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta spicier?

If you love heat, try adding diced jalapeños, using a spicy salsa, or sprinkling in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust to taste for your preferred spice level.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that your taco seasoning is certified gluten-free to make Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta suitable for gluten-free diets.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar is classic for its gooey melt and bold flavor, but you can mix in Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even a Mexican cheese blend for extra depth and creaminess.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a meal that’s hearty, quick, and guaranteed to disappear fast, Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is it. With every bite, you get all the fun and flavor of tacos, wrapped up in a cozy, creamy pasta dish. Give it a try—you might just find your new family favorite!

Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta Recipe

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4.7 from 30 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A hearty and flavorful cheesy beef taco pasta that combines ground beef, taco seasoning, salsa, black beans, corn, and melted cheddar cheese for a quick and satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
8 oz pasta (rotini or shells work best)
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade seasoning)
1 cup salsa
1/2 cup water
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup frozen corn
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Brown the beef: In a large skillet or pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is fully browned. Drain off any excess fat to avoid greasiness.
Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
Add seasonings and salsa: Stir in the taco seasoning, salsa, and water into the beef mixture. Mix well to combine all flavors.
Add beans and corn: Fold in the drained black beans and frozen corn, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Combine pasta and cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in the cooked pasta and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted completely and the pasta mixture is creamy and well mixed.
Season to taste and serve: Taste the pasta and add salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired and serve warm.

Notes

For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or use a spicy salsa variety.
Stir in cream cheese or sour cream for a creamier texture if preferred.
This dish is excellent for leftovers and meal prepping, as flavors deepen overnight.
Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Mexican-American