Cheesy Taco Pasta is a fun and tasty mix that brings together all the best flavors of tacos in a comforting pasta dish. It’s packed with chewy pasta, seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and a splash of taco spices that make every bite a little celebration. The combination of creamy cheese and bold taco flavors makes this dish a real crowd-pleaser.
I love making Cheesy Taco Pasta when I want something quick but satisfying, especially on busy weeknights. What I find handy is using simple ingredients you probably already have, like ground beef, pasta, shredded cheese, and taco seasoning. Plus, it’s so easy to toss everything together in one pan, which means less time cooking and more time enjoying the meal.
One of my favorite ways to serve this is with a handful of fresh chopped cilantro and a dollop of sour cream on top. It adds a cool contrast to all that warm, cheesy goodness. It’s a fun twist on traditional pasta and definitely a recipe my family always asks me to make again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of the taco flavor. If you want a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian twist, use cooked lentils or plant-based crumbles instead.
Rotini Pasta: The spirals catch the sauce nicely. You can swap with penne, shells, or any short pasta you prefer or have on hand.
Taco Seasoning: The seasoning mix is key for that taco taste. If you don’t have a packet, blend chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of oregano and cayenne.
Cheese: Cheddar adds great sharpness. Mixing in Mexican blend cheese boosts the creamy texture. Use mozzarella or Monterey Jack if you want it milder, or pepper jack for a little heat.
Salsa: Adds moisture and flavor depth. Mild salsa works well for kids; medium or spicy if you like some kick. Tomato sauce with taco spices can be a simple substitute.
How Do I Get the Cheese Perfectly Melted Without Overcooking the Pasta?
The key is to melt the cheese gently and evenly without letting the pasta dry out or get mushy.
- After mixing the pasta with the sauce, keep your heat low—low to medium-low is best.
- Sprinkle cheese evenly on top, then cover the pan to trap heat and help cheese melt smoothly.
- Check after 2-3 minutes. The cheese should be melted but still gooey.
- If the sauce looks too thick, add a splash of water or salsa before adding cheese to keep everything creamy.
- Avoid stirring too much once cheese is on top; instead, gently fold it in after melting to keep the shine and texture.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or frying pan – I prefer this because it’s big enough to cook everything in one pot and makes cleanup easier.
- Boiling pot – for cooking the pasta; a standard large pot works well so the pasta cooks evenly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – helps stir and break up the beef while cooking.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to measure water, salsa, and seasonings accurately.
- Drain or colander – to drain the pasta once cooked and keep it from sticking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner, milder flavor.
- Mix in black beans or corn for extra texture and nutrients.
- Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a blend for unique tastes.
- Add a squeeze of lime or hot sauce for a tangy or spicy kick.
Cheesy Taco Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or other short pasta)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (about 1 oz) taco seasoning mix
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup salsa (mild or medium depending on preference)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese (optional for extra cheesiness)
- 1 medium tomato, diced (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, so you can enjoy your cheesy taco pasta in under 30 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini and cook according to the package directions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta well and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Taco Beef Mixture:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes. If there is excess fat, drain it carefully.
3. Add Seasoning and Sauce:
Sprinkle the taco seasoning mix over the beef and stir well, cooking for 1 minute to blend the flavors. Pour in the water and salsa, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Combine Pasta and Cheese:
Add the drained pasta into the skillet with the taco meat sauce. Stir everything together so the pasta is nicely coated. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Mexican blend cheese evenly on top. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt on low heat for about 2-3 minutes until bubbly and gooey.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once the cheese has melted, remove the skillet from heat. Top with fresh diced tomatoes and chopped cilantro for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the ground beef in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave before cooking. This helps it brown evenly and ensures safe cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Taco Seasoning?
If you don’t have a taco seasoning packet, mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust the amounts to taste for your perfect taco flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cheesy taco pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or salsa if the pasta seems dry.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with cooked lentils, black beans, or your favorite plant-based meat substitute. Follow the same steps for seasoning and cooking for a delicious vegetarian version.