Taco pasta bake is the ultimate comfort food mashup, combining the zesty, bold flavors of a taco with the hearty, cheesy goodness of a pasta casserole. Perfect for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings, this dish is packed with seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, creamy sauce, and melty cheese—all baked to golden perfection. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to be a hit with the whole family. Customize it with your favorite taco toppings for a fun and versatile meal!
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini work well)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or spicy, to your taste)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese, divided
- ½ cup black beans or corn (optional)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. - Cook the Ground Beef:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess grease. - Season and Combine:
Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, salsa, and black beans or corn if using. Simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld. - Mix the Casserole:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, beef mixture, sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Mix well to coat everything evenly. - Assemble the Bake:
Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top. - Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. - Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro and your favorite taco toppings, such as diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or a dollop of guacamole.
This taco pasta bake is a cheesy, flavorful dish that’s sure to satisfy your taco cravings in a fun and comforting way!
