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Cheesy beef taco pasta is that kind of comfort food that brings the whole table together on busy weeknights. I love how quickly it comes together while still hitting every craving with seasoned ground beef, tender pasta shells, and that ultra-creamy cheese sauce that never fails to make kids or adults smile. The sharp bite from cheddar over the top makes this simple dish even more irresistible.
The first time I put this on my table it disappeared before I even sat down My family now requests this taco pasta whenever the weather turns chilly and everyone wants something cheesy and filling
Ingredients
- Ground beef: Essential for a rich meatiness Use 80 percent lean for best flavor and juiciness
- Small pasta shells: Catch and hold the cheesy sauce Choose high-quality pasta for the best texture
- Velveeta cheese: Creates smooth meltiness Nothing else gets that creamy
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Adds a tangy lift with extra flavor Shred your own for the best melt
- Taco seasoning: Delivers bold Tex-Mex flavor Check the ingredient list for spices you like
- Rotel: Brings a touch of heat and tomato freshness Look for the original kind for the right balance
- Milk: Helps loosen and smooth the cheese sauce Use whole milk for extra creaminess
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet cook the ground beef over medium heat Stir frequently and break it up with your spatula As the beef cooks you want to see even browning and very little pink left This should take about eight minutes Drain off any excess grease to keep the dish from feeling heavy
- Boil the Pasta Shells:
- In a separate large pot bring plenty of water to a vigorous boil Add a generous pinch of salt then the pasta shells Stir occasionally so they do not stick together Boil until just al dente so the shells will hold their shape when mixed with the sauce Drain well and set aside
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- Wipe your skillet if you like for a cleaner sauce Add diced Velveeta cheese and milk Heat gently over medium stirring constantly This is the part where slow and steady wins the race Melt until completely smooth with no lumps If you rush the cheese may scorch or become grainy
- Combine Pasta and Beef with Sauce:
- Add cooked pasta shells to the skillet with the melted cheese sauce Add in the browned beef Toss gently to make sure everything is coated and combined evenly
- Add Seasonings and Rotel:
- Pour the packets of taco seasoning and the can of Rotel over the mixture Stir until thoroughly combined Everything should be coated in that cheesy spiced sauce giving you layers of flavor in every bite
- Finish with Cheddar Cheese:
- Scatter a handful of shredded sharp cheddar over the top Let it melt by folding it into the hot pasta When melted completely take off the heat and get ready to serve
- Serve:
- Dish up the cheesy beef taco pasta while still piping hot The pasta should be coated and creamy with just the right Tex-Mex punch
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My favorite ingredient is definitely the Rotel It adds just the right tang and a bit of zip without being overpowering My kids especially love when the cheddar cheese is extra gooey and hot on the surface and serving it family style always brings big smiles around our table
Storage Tips
Cool the taco pasta completely before transferring to airtight containers Store in the refrigerator for up to four days For longer storage portion out into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to two months Reheat gently with a splash of milk to keep the cheese sauce creamy
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground turkey or chicken can swap in for beef for a lighter version Any melty cheese works if Velveeta is out of reach but nothing quite compares to its creaminess For a little more kick use hot Rotel or add chopped jalapenos Small elbows or rotini can step in for pasta shells if needed Just adjust the cook time as needed
Serving Suggestions
Top with diced fresh cilantro green onions or a big spoonful of guacamole Crumbled tortilla chips add crunch if you want extra texture For a more complete meal serve with a simple salad of romaine and bright veggies on the side
Cultural Note
This recipe is a playful mashup of Tex-Mex flavors and classic Midwestern-style casseroles Both are known for their warmth and generosity One pot dishes like this reflect the best of home cooking always ready to feed a crowd and best shared at a noisy family table
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Cheesy beef taco pasta is a crowd-pleaser that fits weeknights or special family gatherings. This is one of those dinners everyone will want you to make again and again.