Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the flavors of a classic taco with creamy, cheesy pasta. This easy-to-make meal is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. Packed with seasoned ground beef, tender pasta shells, and a rich cheese sauce, it's a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Let's take a look at the ingredients you'll need to create this flavorful dish.
INGREDIENTS
- Ground Beef: 3 pounds, providing a hearty base for the dish.
- Small Pasta Shells: 1 box, perfect for holding the cheesy sauce.
- Velveeta Cheese: 1 block, offering a smooth and creamy texture.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: A handful, adding extra cheesy goodness.
- Taco Seasoning: 2 packs, infusing the dish with classic taco flavors.
- Rotel: 1 can (original), providing a bit of spice and tomato flavor.
- Milk: 1/2 cup, helping to create a smooth cheese sauce.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- In a large skillet, brown the 3 pounds of ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Make sure to break up the meat into small pieces as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.
- Step 2:
- In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and add the small pasta shells. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Step 3:
- Using the same skillet where you cooked the beef, add the block of Velveeta cheese, cut into cubes, along with 1/2 cup of milk. Stir continuously over medium heat until the cheese is completely melted and smooth, forming a creamy sauce.
- Step 4:
- Add the cooked pasta shells and the browned ground beef to the cheese sauce. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, ensuring that the pasta and beef are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Step 5:
- Mix in the 2 packs of taco seasoning and the can of Rotel. Stir thoroughly, making sure the seasoning is well distributed throughout the dish.
- Step 6:
- Finally, add a handful of sharp cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated, adding an extra layer of cheesy flavor.
- Step 7:
- Serve the Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta hot. You can garnish it with additional shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream if desired. Enjoy this hearty and satisfying meal!
Serving and Storage Tips
Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is best served hot, straight from the skillet. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some crusty bread. For a fun twist, serve it with tortilla chips for added crunch. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, or warm on the stove over low heat until heated through. Add a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much upon reheating.
Helpful Notes
This dish is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to add other ingredients like black beans, corn, or diced bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. For a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or some sliced jalapeños. If you prefer a lighter version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and opt for low-fat cheese options.
Tips from well-known chefs
Chef Rachael Ray recommends using freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the sauce.
Chef Bobby Flay suggests adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice at the end to brighten the flavors and balance the richness of the cheese.
Chef Giada De Laurentiis advises toasting the taco seasoning in the skillet for a minute before adding the other ingredients to enhance the spices' flavor.