Cheesy Taco Pasta Bake

Short Description

Cheesy Taco Pasta Bake is a delicious fusion of Mexican and Italian comfort food, featuring seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, salsa, and melted cheese baked together in one hearty casserole. This easy weeknight dinner is rich, satisfying, and sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta bake is quick to prepare, uses pantry-friendly ingredients, and brings bold taco flavor in every bite. It combines the creaminess of a cheesy pasta dish with the zest and spice of tacos. Perfect for family meals, potlucks, or meal prepping, it’s a warm, bubbly, oven-baked dish that tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 cup salsa
• 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• ½ cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, jalapeños

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F.
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds.
Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
Stir in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, salsa, corn, and sour cream. Mix until well combined. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with remaining cheese.
Bake for 15–20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with desired toppings and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Makes 6 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: approximately 35 minutes

Variations

– Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef
– Replace sour cream with cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a different texture
– Add black beans or pinto beans for extra protein and fiber
– Stir in chopped spinach or bell peppers for added veggies
– Use enchilada sauce instead of salsa for a saucier version

Storage / Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F covered with foil until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.
This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake until hot and bubbly.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, short pasta like rotini, penne, or shells work best to hold the sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble it up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

Is it spicy?

The level of heat depends on the salsa and taco seasoning. Use mild versions for less heat or add jalapeños for more.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, replace beef with beans or a plant-based meat substitute and use vegetable-based cheese if needed.

Does this freeze well?

Yes, it’s a great freezer meal. Wrap tightly and freeze before or after baking.

What cheese works best?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend all melt well and complement the taco flavor.

Can I add more veggies?

Definitely. Bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach all cook down well in the dish.

Can I use leftover taco meat?

Yes, just heat it through before mixing with the pasta and baking.

Is there a dairy-free option?

You can use dairy-free sour cream and cheese substitutes to make this recipe dairy-free.

What toppings go well with this bake?

Fresh cilantro, chopped scallions, avocado, diced tomatoes, or crushed tortilla chips all make excellent toppings.

Conclusion

Cheesy Taco Pasta Bake is a comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole that brings together the bold flavors of taco night with the cozy familiarity of pasta. It’s easy to make, full of adaptable ingredients, and perfect for busy evenings or casual gatherings. One bite and it’s sure to become a weeknight staple. Let me know when you’re ready for the next recipe!

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