Taco Pasta
Looking for a quick, flavorful dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights? This Taco Pasta recipe is just what you need! Ready in only 25 minutes, this dish brings together the savory, spicy goodness of tacos with the comforting heartiness of pasta. Customize it with your favorite toppings for a meal that’s as versatile as it is delicious.
Taco Pasta Recipe
This easy Taco Pasta combines seasoned beef, salsa, corn, and black beans with pasta, creating a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. The best part? It’s ready in just 25 minutes, making it a go-to for any night of the week.
What Is Taco Pasta?
Taco Pasta is a fusion of the classic taco flavors you love with the satisfying texture of pasta. Instead of using taco shells, this recipe uses pasta as the base, mixed with seasoned beef, salsa, corn, and black beans. Top it off with your favorite taco toppings for a delicious twist on taco night.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- Family-Friendly: Mild flavors that kids will love, with the option to spice things up for those who like a bit more heat.
- Versatile: Customize the toppings, switch up the protein, or try different pasta types to suit your taste.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite)
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1 cup chunky salsa (or your favorite variety)
- 1 cup corn (canned, drained, or frozen)
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef with minced garlic and taco seasoning for 5-7 minutes, until browned and fully cooked.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, salsa, corn, and black beans to the skillet. Stir gently to combine, and continue cooking for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in the chopped cilantro (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with your favorite taco toppings.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Ground Beef: Swap with ground turkey or chicken for a different flavor. For a vegetarian option, use an extra can of beans, such as pinto or kidney beans.
- Salsa: Use regular salsa, homemade salsa, or substitute with Rotel tomatoes.
- Corn: Frozen corn can replace canned corn; use about 1-2 cups.
- Beans: Any type of bean can work—try pinto, kidney, or garbanzo beans.
Storage Information
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Microwave or warm on the stove over medium heat until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if needed.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the dish in advance and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Variations To Try
- Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken, or omit meat and add extra beans for a vegetarian option.
- Pick Your Pasta: Try different pasta shapes, or use whole wheat or vegetable pasta for a healthier twist.
- Vibrant Veggies: Add bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce for more heat.
- Cheesy Taco Pasta: Stir in 1-2 cups of shredded Mexican blend cheese for a cheesy finish.
- Extra Saucy: Add 8 ounces of tomato sauce for a saucier pasta dish.
Topping Ideas
Enhance your Taco Pasta with these classic taco toppings:
- Shredded cheese
- Diced avocado
- Pico de gallo
- Guacamole
- Diced tomatoes
- Sour cream
- Lime wedges
- Olives
- Diced onion
Tips for Success
- Ensure the pasta is well-drained to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.
- Adjust the taco seasoning to taste—start with the recommended amount and add more if desired.
- Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease.
- Rinse and drain the black beans thoroughly before adding them to the dish.
- This recipe works with any pasta you have on hand, so feel free to experiment!
Taco Pasta
This easy Taco Pasta combines seasoned beef, salsa, corn, and black beans with pasta, creating a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. The best part? It’s ready in just 25 minutes, making it a go-to for any night of the week.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board
- Knife
- colander
- Measuring spoons and cups
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta penne, rotini, or your favorite
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1 cup chunky salsa or your favorite variety
- 1 cup corn canned, drained, or frozen
- 1 cup black beans rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef with minced garlic and taco seasoning for 5-7 minutes, until browned and fully cooked.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, salsa, corn, and black beans to the skillet. Stir gently to combine, and continue cooking for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in the chopped cilantro (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with your favorite taco toppings.
Notes
Ensure the pasta is well-drained to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.
Adjust the taco seasoning to taste—start with the recommended amount and add more if desired.
Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease.
Rinse and drain the black beans thoroughly before adding them to the dish.
This recipe works with any pasta you have on hand, so feel free to experiment!
Adjust the taco seasoning to taste—start with the recommended amount and add more if desired.
Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease.
Rinse and drain the black beans thoroughly before adding them to the dish.
This recipe works with any pasta you have on hand, so feel free to experiment!