Description
This Easy Taco Pasta combines the hearty flavors of classic taco seasoning with creamy pasta, making a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. Ground beef, salsa, and cream cheese come together with pasta shells to create a cheesy, flavorful dish topped with shredded cheese for extra indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Seasoning
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 Tbsp minced onion flakes
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 (1-oz) package taco seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pasta and Dairy
- 8 oz small pasta shells
- 4 oz cream cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- Shredded cheese for topping (about ½ cup)
Other
- 1 cup salsa
- ½ cup reserved pasta water (from cooking pasta)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the small pasta shells and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water, and set both aside.
- Cook the ground beef: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring occasionally, until it is no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat to avoid greasiness.
- Add aromatics: To the beef, add the minced onion flakes and garlic. Cook and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant to enhance the flavor base.
- Simmer with salsa and seasoning: Stir in the salsa and taco seasoning. Reduce the heat to medium and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Combine pasta and creamy ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, cream cheese, sour cream, and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and well combined. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve and garnish: Dish out the creamy taco pasta and top with shredded cheese. Add additional sour cream and salsa as desired for extra richness and flavor. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Reserving pasta water helps to thin the sauce and helps it cling to the pasta better.
- You can use any type of small pasta like elbows or rotini if small shells are unavailable.
- For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for beef and use low-fat dairy products.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat with a splash of water or milk to restore the creamy texture.
