Name: The BEST Taco Pasta Bake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients: 8 oz. pasta (shells or rotini work best); 1 lb. ground beef (or your preferred protein); 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 can (14 oz.) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a taco blend); 1 can (15 oz.) black beans (drained and rinsed); 1 cup corn (frozen or canned); Chopped cilantro, avocado, sour cream (for topping)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavor Explosion: The combination of taco seasoning, creamy cheese, and pasta creates a fiesta in every bite.
Cost-Saving Meal: This dish is easy on your wallet and provides a satisfying meal for the whole family.
Customizable Toppings: Whether you love cilantro, avocado, or jalapeños, the toppings allow you to personalize the dish to your liking.
Quick & Easy: In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a hearty, flavorful meal that everyone will love!

Key Ingredients for The BEST Taco Pasta Bake

8 oz. pasta (shells or rotini work best)
1 lb. ground beef (or your preferred protein)
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can (14 oz.) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a taco blend)
1 can (15 oz.) black beans (drained and rinsed)
1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
Chopped cilantro, avocado, sour cream (for topping)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for baking.

2. Cook the Pasta

Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Brown the Beef

Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.

4. Add Taco Seasoning and Veggies

Add taco seasoning to the cooked beef, along with the diced tomatoes with chilies, black beans, and corn. Stir until everything is combined and heated through.

5. Combine with Pasta and Sour Cream

Mix in the cooked pasta and sour cream. Stir gently to coat everything evenly.

6. Assemble the Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.

7. Add Cheese and Bake

Top with shredded cheese and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve topped with your favorite toppings such as chopped cilantro, avocado, and extra sour cream.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions: You can easily swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and load up with extra veggies, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms, for a colorful twist.
Extra Cheese: For extra cheesiness, try mixing different types of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for an added kick!

What to Serve with Taco Pasta Bake

Salad: Pair it with a fresh garden salad for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheesy pasta bake.
Guacamole & Tortilla Chips: For that extra fiesta feel, serve with guacamole and tortilla chips.
Drinks: A refreshing iced tea or fruity soda can be the perfect beverage to complement this meal.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the Taco Pasta Bake in the microwave or bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Freezing: If you want to save some for later, freeze the pasta bake before baking. Wrap it well and it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra baking time.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different protein?

Yes! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian protein like black beans or tempeh.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time, refrigerate it, and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

3. What can I use if I don’t have taco seasoning?

You can make your own taco seasoning using chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt.

4. Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes! Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for some extra heat.

5. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! You can substitute cheddar with mozzarella, Mexican blend, or even pepper jack for a spicier flavor.

6. How do I know when it’s done?

The Taco Pasta Bake is done when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown around the edges.

7. Can I use different pasta shapes?

Yes! Shells, rotini, or even penne would all work well for this recipe.

8. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

9. Can I add more vegetables to the bake?

Absolutely! You can add more veggies like bell peppers, onions, or even spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

10. Can I serve this dish with salsa?

Yes, salsa is a great topping for this dish! It’ll add an extra burst of flavor and a touch of freshness.

Conclusion

The BEST Taco Pasta Bake combines everything you love about tacos with the comforting texture of pasta, making it the ultimate dinner option for any night. With its creamy, cheesy filling and bold taco flavors, this dish is a surefire hit with the whole family. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or a fun twist on taco night, this Taco Pasta Bake will not disappoint!