Taco Pasta – Get ready to experience a taste explosion with our mouthwatering recipe – “The BEST Taco Pasta!” This delightful fusion of classic Italian pasta with bold Mexican flavors will leave you and your family craving for more. Picture tender pasta shells, perfectly seasoned ground beef, zesty salsa, and gooey cheddar cheese, all coming together in one sensational dish. Whether you’re a taco lover, pasta enthusiast, or just someone looking for an exciting twist on traditional comfort food, this recipe is guaranteed to win your heart and taste buds!
In our little family, the love for food runs deep, and “The BEST Taco Pasta” has become a cherished favorite. One evening, as I was searching for a creative dinner idea, my husband, Alex, suggested combining our love for tacos with our fondness for pasta. Intrigued by the idea, I whipped up this marvelous concoction, and it was love at first bite!
As I set the steaming platter on the table, the aroma alone made our mouths water with anticipation. We all took our first forkful, and there was an instant chorus of “mmms” and “wows” around the table. The taco seasoning mingled perfectly with the tender ground beef, while the salsa added a zesty kick. And let’s not forget the cheesy goodness – it’s practically impossible to resist! From that day on, Taco Pasta has been a regular star on our family dinner menu, bringing us together in a delicious fiesta of flavors.
Why This Taco Pasta Recipe Will Win Your Heart?
- The fusion of classic Italian pasta with vibrant Mexican flavors creates a unique and exciting dining experience.
- Using premium ingredients, such as juicy ground beef, aromatic spices, and rich cheddar cheese, ensures a restaurant-quality taste at home.
- The combination of Worcestershire sauce and red pepper flakes adds a subtle yet delightful twist that sets this recipe apart from other pasta dishes.
- It’s a quick and easy recipe, perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 250g (1/2 lb.) large shell pasta
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- 450g (1 lb.) ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 180ml (3/4 cup) water
- 240ml (1 cup) jarred salsa
- 180g (1 1/2 cups) shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, drain, and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the canola oil. Add the ground beef and cook until nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
Drain excess fat, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons in the pan.
Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the taco seasoning, dried oregano, Worcestershire sauce, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Pour in 3/4 cup of water, stirring everything together. Cook until the water evaporates.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, followed by the jarred salsa and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted, and all the ingredients are well combined.
Serve immediately, garnishing with extra cheese, crushed tortilla chips, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a burst of freshness.
Notes:
- For a healthier version, you can use ground turkey instead of beef.
- Customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes or choosing mild or hot salsa.
- Feel free to add your favorite taco toppings, such as diced tomatoes, sliced olives, or avocado.
“The BEST Taco Pasta” is a recipe that brings together the best of two beloved culinary traditions – Italian pasta and Mexican flavors. With its tantalizing combination of tender pasta shells, perfectly seasoned ground beef, zesty salsa, and gooey cheddar cheese, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re seeking a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests at a gathering, this recipe delivers on both taste and convenience. The fusion of traditional taco ingredients with the comforting embrace of pasta creates a delightful harmony of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Not only is “The BEST Taco Pasta” incredibly delicious, but it also holds a special place in our hearts as a cherished family favorite. The excitement that fills our kitchen when we prepare this dish is matched only by the joy we experience when we sit down together to savor each mouthful. It’s a recipe that brings people together, creating memorable moments and shared laughter around the table.
So why wait? Give this recipe a try and embark on a culinary adventure that combines the best of both worlds. From the first bite to the last, you’ll be captivated by the explosion of flavors and textures that make “The BEST Taco Pasta” an absolute winner. Get ready to indulge in a fiesta of taste that will leave you craving more. Enjoy the journey, and bon appétit!
FAQs about The BEST Taco Pasta
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While we love the texture of large shell pasta, you can try this recipe with other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle.
Is it spicy?
The level of spiciness can be adjusted according to your preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or opt for a mild salsa.
Can I make it in advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the taco pasta in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
![](https://8fivefive.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Taco-Pasta-300x300.jpg)
Taco Pasta
Ingredients
- 250 g 1/2 lb. large shell pasta
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- 450 g 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 yellow onion diced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 180 ml 3/4 cup water
- 240 ml 1 cup jarred salsa
- 180 g 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the canola oil. Add the ground beef and cook until nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Drain excess fat, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons in the pan.
- Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the taco seasoning, dried oregano, Worcestershire sauce, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Pour in 3/4 cup of water, stirring everything together. Cook until the water evaporates.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, followed by the jarred salsa and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted, and all the ingredients are well combined.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with extra cheese, crushed tortilla chips, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a burst of freshness.
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