Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is a hearty and comforting dish that combines the flavors of a classic beef taco with the creaminess of cheesy pasta. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where you need a satisfying and flavorful meal. With ground beef, taco seasoning, and plenty of cheese, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Benefits
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Family-Friendly: The combination of pasta, beef, and cheese is a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite taco toppings like sour cream, jalapeños, or diced tomatoes.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds ground beef
- 1 box small pasta shells
- 1 pack Velveeta cheese, cubed
- Handful of sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 packs taco seasoning
- 1 can Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chilies)
- 1/2 cup milk
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Once cooked, drain off any excess fat and set the beef aside.
- Cook the Pasta:
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In the same skillet used for the beef, add the cubed Velveeta cheese. Melt the cheese over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Once the cheese is melted, add the milk and continue to stir until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Add the cooked pasta shells and browned ground beef to the cheese sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and add the can of Rotel. Mix everything together until well incorporated.
- Finally, add the handful of sharp cheddar cheese and stir until the cheese is melted and the pasta is fully combined with the other ingredients.
- Serve:
- Serve the Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta hot. Optionally, top with your favorite taco toppings like sour cream, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, or green onions.
Helpful Tips
- Cheese Variations: For a different flavor, try using pepper jack or Colby cheese instead of cheddar.
- Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, use mild Rotel or diced tomatoes without chilies. For more heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Make It Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or black beans for a vegetarian version.
FAQs
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
- Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as macaroni, penne, or rotini.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
- Can I freeze this dish?
- Yes, you can freeze the cooked pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Pair with tortilla chips and salsa for a complete taco-themed dinner.
Servings
- This recipe serves approximately 8-10 people.
Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Enjoy your Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta, a delicious fusion of taco flavors and creamy pasta goodness!
Recipe Card
Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta
Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is a hearty and comforting dish that combines the flavors of a classic beef taco with the creaminess of cheesy pasta. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where you need a satisfying and flavorful meal. With ground beef, taco seasoning, and plenty of cheese, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
- – 3 pounds ground beef
- – 1 box small pasta shells
- – 1 pack Velveeta cheese (cubed)
- – Handful of sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- – 2 packs taco seasoning
- – 1 can Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chilies)
- – 1/2 cup milk
Cook the Ground Beef
- – In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Once cooked, drain off any excess fat and set the beef aside.
Cook the Pasta
- – In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce
- – In the same skillet used for the beef, add the cubed Velveeta cheese. Melt the cheese over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- – Once the cheese is melted, add the milk and continue to stir until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
Combine the Ingredients
- – Add the cooked pasta shells and browned ground beef to the cheese sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- – Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and add the can of Rotel. Mix everything together until well incorporated.
- – Finally, add the handful of sharp cheddar cheese and stir until the cheese is melted and the pasta is fully combined with the other ingredients.
Serve
- – Serve the Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta hot. Optionally, top with your favorite taco toppings like sour cream, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, or green onions.