Description
If you’re a fan of both tacos and pasta, this dish is a dream come true! Taco pasta combines the bold, spicy flavors of Mexican cuisine with the creamy, comforting elements of Italian pasta. It’s an easy, one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Pasta and Protein:
12 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or shells work best)
1 pound ground beef or plant-based alternative
Seasonings and Spices:
1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend: 1 teaspoon each of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Sauce and Add-ins:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup salsa
1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
1/2 cup sour cream or dairy-free alternative
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend, or dairy-free alternative)
1/2 cup pasta water (reserved)
Toppings (Optional):
Chopped cilantro
Sliced jalapeños
Diced avocado
Crushed tortilla chips
Instructions
Cook the pasta: Boil the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Prepare the protein: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
Brown the meat: Add ground beef or plant-based alternative to the skillet. Cook until browned, then drain excess grease if necessary.
Add seasoning: Stir in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, salsa, black beans, and corn. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
Combine with pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Stir well to coat everything in the sauce.
Add dairy: Stir in sour cream and shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
Serve and garnish: Top with your favorite toppings like cilantro, jalapeños, avocado, or crushed tortilla chips.
Notes
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Spice Level: Adjust the heat by using mild or hot salsa and adding more or less jalapeños.
Make It Healthier: Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta, lean ground turkey, and low-fat cheese.
Vegetarian Option: Use a plant-based meat alternative or extra beans instead of ground beef.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 20g