5-Ingredient Taco Pasta Casserole – Looking for a quick and easy dinner recipe that is sure to satisfy your taco cravings? Look no further than this delicious Taco Pasta Casserole. Made with just five simple ingredients, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser that you can whip up in no time. The combination of savory ground meat, al dente pasta shells, zesty salsa, and melty cheese make for a perfect comfort food dish that is easy to customize with your favorite toppings.
This Taco Pasta Casserole has quickly become a family favorite in my household. My husband absolutely loves it and requests it at least once a week. I remember the first time I made it for him – he couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was and even asked for seconds. Since then, I have added my own personal touches to the recipe, such as adding cream cheese to make the sauce even creamier. Now, it has become a staple in our weekly meal rotation, and I am excited to share it with all of you.
Why This Taco Pasta Casserole Is a Must-Try?
This recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a quick and easy dinner recipe that is packed with flavor.
- Made with just five simple ingredients, it is easy to make and requires minimal prep time.
- The combination of ground meat, pasta, salsa, and cheese makes for a perfect comfort food dish that is sure to satisfy your cravings.
- It is highly customizable – you can add your favorite taco-style toppings to make it your own.
- It can be made in just one pot, which means less clean-up time for you.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs. (900g) ground meat (beef, chicken, and/or turkey)
- 16 oz. (450g) pasta shells
- 15.5 oz. (440g) salsa
- 1/2 cup (56g) shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 2 (1 oz.) packets taco seasoning (or 1/4 cup if using bulk taco seasoning)
- 1 1/2 cups (360ml) water or milk
- Optional: 1/2 cup (113g) cream cheese, sour cream, or half and half for creamier sauce
Directions:
Cook pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
In a Dutch oven or cast-iron skillet, brown the ground meat. Once done, drain any excess fat.
Add the cooked pasta to the drained meat. If using a casserole dish, transfer the mixture to the dish.
Sprinkle the taco seasoning packet over the meat, then pour water or milk over the top.
Add the salsa to the mixture and stir to combine all ingredients.
Top with shredded cheese.
Bake in the oven at 400°F (205°C) for 18-22 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbly.
Serve with your favorite taco-style toppings.
Notes:
- You can use any type of ground meat you prefer, such as beef, chicken, or turkey.
- To make the sauce creamier, you can add ½ cup of cream cheese, sour cream, or half and half.
- This recipe is great for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and reheated throughout the week.
- Try topping the casserole with your favorite taco toppings, such as diced tomatoes, avocado, or sour cream.
In conclusion, this Taco Pasta Casserole is a delicious and easy-to-make recipe that is perfect for busy weeknights. With only five ingredients, it’s quick to assemble and can be customized to your liking with different types of pasta, meat, and toppings. The creamy sauce and flavorful seasoning make this casserole a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving a crowd, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So give it a try and enjoy a tasty and satisfying meal!
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Shells work well because they hold the sauce, but you could also try using penne or fusilli.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use beef, chicken, or turkey. You could also try using ground pork or a meatless alternative like tofu crumbles.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze until ready to bake. If refrigerating, it should last up to 4 days. If freezing, it should last up to 3 months.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or corn to the casserole. Simply sauté them with the meat before adding the pasta and other ingredients.
5-Ingredient Taco Pasta Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 lbs. 900g ground meat (beef, chicken, and/or turkey)
- 16 oz. 450g pasta shells
- 15.5 oz. 440g salsa
- 1/2 cup 56g shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 2 1 oz. packets taco seasoning (or 1/4 cup if using bulk taco seasoning)
- 1 1/2 cups 360ml water or milk
- Optional: 1/2 cup 113g cream cheese, sour cream, or half and half for creamier sauce
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- In a Dutch oven or cast-iron skillet, brown the ground meat. Once done, drain any excess fat.
- Add the cooked pasta to the drained meat. If using a casserole dish, transfer the mixture to the dish.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning packet over the meat, then pour water or milk over the top.
- Add the salsa to the mixture and stir to combine all ingredients.
- Top with shredded cheese.
- Bake in the oven at 400°F (205°C) for 18-22 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbly.
- Serve with your favorite taco-style toppings.
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