What kind of pasta is best for taco pasta?

Elbow macaroni is a classic choice for taco pasta due to its shape, which holds the sauce well. Rotini, shells, or penne are also good options.

What kind of cheese is best for taco pasta?

Cheddar cheese is the most common and readily available choice, offering a classic taco flavor. Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a Mexican blend also work well.

Can I make cheesy taco pasta ahead of time?

Yes, cheesy taco pasta can be made ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You may need to add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to restore its creamy consistency.

Can I freeze cheesy taco pasta?

Yes, cheesy taco pasta can be frozen, but the texture of the pasta may change slightly upon thawing. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

What toppings go well with taco pasta?

Common toppings for taco pasta include sour cream, salsa, guacamole, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, black olives, green onions, and crushed tortilla chips.

How can I make taco pasta healthier?

To make taco pasta healthier, use lean ground beef or ground turkey, whole wheat pasta, reduced-fat cheese, and add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and corn.

Cheesy Taco Pasta: Your New Favorite Weeknight Dinner 2026

Name: Cheesy Taco Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef (85/15 lean-to-fat ratio); 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 1 packet (about 2 tablespoons) taco seasoning; 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce; 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel), undrained; 2 cups low-sodium chicken or beef broth; 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half; 8 ounces (about 3 cups) dry elbow macaroni, rotini, or small shells; 2 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided

Cheesy Taco Pasta

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A one-pan weeknight hero that combines the cozy comfort of creamy pasta with the zesty, crowd-pleasing flavors of taco night. Freshly grated sharp cheddar melts into a velvety sauce as the pasta cooks directly in a spiced tomato and beef mixture. Ready in about 35 minutes with minimal cleanup.

Author: Harmony
Prep Time: 10min
Cook Time: 25min
Total Time: 35min
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: dinner
Method: stovetop
Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground beef (85/15 lean-to-fat ratio)
1 medium yellow onion, diced
1 packet (about 2 tablespoons) taco seasoning
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
2 cups low-sodium chicken or beef broth
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
8 ounces (about 3 cups) dry elbow macaroni, rotini, or small shells
2 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided

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Instructions

In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion together, breaking up the meat, until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease if desired.
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef and onion. Stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with green chilies, broth, and heavy cream. Stir well to combine.
Add the dry pasta to the skillet and stir to submerge. Bring to a lively simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring once or twice, until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese over the top. Let the pasta sit for 5 minutes to allow the sauce to set before serving with desired toppings.

Notes

For a golden top, place the skillet under a preheated broiler for 2-3 minutes after adding the final cheese. Always grate cheese from a block for the smoothest sauce. The pasta will continue to absorb sauce as it rests, so aim for al dente when checking doneness.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 6
Calories: 550
Sugar: 6
Sodium: 850
Fat: 28
Saturated Fat: 15
Unsaturated Fat: 10
Trans Fat: 1
Carbohydrates: 45
Fiber: 4
Protein: 30
Cholesterol: 105

Find it online: https://www.homestyletable.com/cheesy-taco-pasta/