Name: Taco Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 lb. ButcherBox Ground Beef; 1/2 cup onion, chopped finely; ½ tablespoon minced garlic (2 cloves); 2 cups red bell pepper, diced; 2 tablespoons taco seasoning, low sodium; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 2 cups beef broth; 2 cups water; 3 cups medium shells pasta (10 oz); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 37 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that perfectly blends the bold, zesty flavors of tacos with the comforting, hearty texture of pasta, this Taco Pasta Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s a vibrant, one-pot wonder that brings simple ingredients together into a flavorful fiesta that everyone will adore. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or casual weekend dinner, this dish delivers satisfying spices, melty cheese, and a beautiful medley of colors in every bite. It’s not only easy to whip up but also endlessly versatile, making it a perfect go-to recipe for taco lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top-down view of a white frying pan filled with cooked ground meat mixed with small diced red bell peppers and bits of onion. The meat is a light brown color with a crumbly texture, evenly spread inside the pan. The red bell peppers add bright spots of color throughout, and the onions can be seen as small translucent pieces mixed in. The handle of the pan is silver and slightly curves upwards. The pan rests on a surface with a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Taco Pasta Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a starring role, adding layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish truly shine without overwhelming your pantry.

1 lb. ButcherBox Ground Beef: Choose high-quality, lean beef for rich flavor and a hearty protein base.
1/2 cup onion, chopped finely: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth that balances the spices.
½ tablespoon minced garlic (2 cloves): Brings aromatic warmth and a gentle kick that elevates the dish.
2 cups red bell pepper, diced: Provides a fresh crunch and a pop of vibrant, inviting color.
2 tablespoons taco seasoning, low sodium: The essential spice blend that breathes life into this recipe with smoky, savory notes.
3 cups medium shells pasta (10 oz): Perfect for holding onto that delicious sauce and creating a fun eating experience.
1 tablespoon tomato paste: Adds concentrated tomato flavor and richness to the sauce.
2 cups beef broth: Deepens the savory base and helps cook the pasta perfectly.
2 cups water: Keeps everything cooking evenly and enhances the sauce’s consistency.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into creamy goodness that ties every element together beautifully.

How to Make Taco Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Beef and Veggies

Start by spritzing your pan with olive oil spray and heating it over medium-high heat for about three minutes. Then, toss in the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell peppers. Cook this mixture for roughly 10 minutes until the beef browns thoroughly and the onions soften, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas.

Step 2: Add Pasta and Seasonings

Once your beef and veggies are perfectly cooked, stir in the dry pasta, taco seasoning, tomato paste, beef broth, and water. Mix everything to combine evenly. Then cover the pan and crank up the heat until the mixture comes to a full boil—this should take about five minutes.

Step 3: Simmer Until Tender

Remove the lid, lower the heat to medium, and let the flavors meld for 10 to 12 minutes. Stir every few minutes to prevent sticking and to help the pasta cook evenly. Keep an eye out for when the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has evaporated, creating a thick, saucy texture.

Step 4: Stir in the Cheese

Take the pan off the heat, sprinkle in your shredded cheddar cheese, and stir until the cheese melts into a rich, creamy sauce that clings to every bite of pasta and beef. This final touch transforms the dish into an irresistible, cheesy taco-infused dream!

How to Serve Taco Pasta Recipe

A white pan with two silver handles holds three main layers of food. The bottom layer is a golden-brown ground meat mixed with small pieces of red bell pepper and some sauce. Above that is a thin layer of orange-red broth that fills most of the pan. On top of everything is a layer of uncooked large yellow shell pasta, arranged loosely and spread across the center and right side of the pan. Near the pasta, there is one small clump of red tomato paste resting on the broth. The pan sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Toppings can turn this Taco Pasta Recipe from delicious to downright unforgettable. Think fresh cilantro leaves for a hint of herbaceous brightness, a dollop of cool sour cream to complement the spices, or diced avocado to add creaminess and a fresh texture contrast. Even a squeeze of lime juice can wake up the flavors beautifully just before serving.

Side Dishes

While this dish can stand proudly on its own, pairing it with simple sides like a crisp green salad, crunchy tortilla chips, or a corn and black bean salad creates a complete and satisfying meal. These sides add textural variety and fresh notes that balance the richness of the taco pasta.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the taco pasta in individual ramekins or colorful bowls. You could also sprinkle some crushed tortilla chips on top for a surprising crunch or layer it with jalapeño slices if you enjoy a bit of heat. For a party, turn this recipe into a taco pasta bar where everyone adds their own toppings and sides!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover taco pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it just as tasty the next day. Before storing, make sure the dish has cooled to avoid excess moisture build-up.

Freezing

This Taco Pasta Recipe freezes well for up to two months. Pop portions into freezer-safe containers or bags and label them clearly. When you’re ready for it, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat your taco pasta gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of beef broth or water if the pasta seems dry. You can also microwave leftovers covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture while heating.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works beautifully in this Taco Pasta Recipe. Just adjust cooking time slightly to ensure it’s fully cooked and tender.

What if I don’t have taco seasoning?

No worries! You can easily mix your own blend using chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt—this keeps your dish flavorful without relying on premade packets.

Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level depends on the taco seasoning used. Using a low-sodium or mild version keeps the heat manageable, but feel free to add fresh jalapeños or hot sauce if you prefer more kick.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms and beans for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly while maintaining rich flavor.

What pasta shapes work best for Taco Pasta Recipe?

Medium shells are fantastic because their shape holds the sauce well, but you can also experiment with elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne depending on what you have on hand. Just make sure to adjust cooking times if needed.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Taco Pasta Recipe enough for anyone looking to spice up their dinner routine with something quick, tasty, and comforting. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the best of both worlds—taco flavor and pasta love—all in one generous, cheesy, flavor-packed dish. Give it a try and watch it become a permanent favorite at your table!