Beef Taco Pasta Skillet

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that comes together in a single skillet, look no further than this Beef Taco Pasta Skillet. It’s the ultimate weeknight meal that hits all the right notes—savory seasoned beef, tender pasta, melty cheese, and a punch of zesty taco flavor, all cooked up in one pan for easy cleanup. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a total game-changer. Plus, it’s totally customizable and perfect for those nights when you want something hearty but quick.

Top Reasons to Make Beef Taco Pasta Skillet

• One-Pan Wonder: Save time on washing dishes—everything cooks in one skillet!
• Comfort Food with a Twist: Pasta meets Mexican-inspired flavors for a fun family favorite.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Swap out pasta shapes, add veggies, or change up your cheese blend.
• Kid-Approved: Mildly spiced and cheesy, this dish is a hit with picky eaters.

Ingredient Rundown

• 1 pound ground beef: The star protein, providing rich flavor and satisfying texture.
• 8 ounces uncooked pasta (elbow or shells): These shapes hold the sauce beautifully and are perfect for scooping.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to sauté the onion and garlic for a flavorful base.
• 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings that irresistible aromatic punch.
• 1 packet taco seasoning (make sure it’s pork-free): Infuses the beef with classic taco spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika.
• 1 cup beef broth: Helps cook the pasta and meld all the flavors together.
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces), undrained: Adds moisture and a tangy tomato flavor.
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or blend): Melts into the pasta for creamy, cheesy goodness.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing all the components.
• Chopped fresh cilantro (optional): A fresh, herbal garnish that brightens the dish.

Must-Have Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan: Big enough to brown meat and cook pasta all in one pot.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring and scraping the bottom of the pan.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To measure broth, oil, and seasoning precisely.
• Knife and cutting board: For dicing onion and mincing garlic.
• Colander (optional): If you prefer to rinse pasta before cooking, although it’s not necessary here.

Beef Taco Pasta Skillet, Made Easy

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat the olive oil in your large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with your spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Season It Up

Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the cooked beef. Stir well to coat the meat with those bold spices. Pour in the beef broth and the entire can of diced tomatoes (undrained). Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 3: Add the Pasta

Pour the uncooked pasta directly into the skillet. Give it a good stir to combine with the beef and liquids. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover with a lid and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will absorb the broth and cook through.

Step 4: Cheese It Up

Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet again and let the cheese melt for about 2-3 minutes. If you like it extra gooey, you can add a little more cheese or broil it briefly until bubbly and golden.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top for a burst of freshness, if using. Serve your Beef Taco Pasta Skillet hot, alongside your favorite toppings like sour cream, avocado slices, or jalapeños for some extra kick.

Better-for-You Options

• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to boost fiber and accommodate dietary needs.
• Substitute lean ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein.
• Add extra veggies like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for added nutrition.
• Use low-sodium beef broth to control salt levels.
• Swap shredded cheese for a reduced-fat version or a flavorful Mexican cheese blend.

Notes on Ingredients

• Ground beef: Choose 80/20 for juiciness, or leaner if you want less fat.
• Taco seasoning: Check the label to ensure it’s free of pork derivatives and tailored to your spice preference. You can also make your own blend with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
• Beef broth: Adds depth and richness. Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for a lighter flavor.
• Diced tomatoes: Using undrained tomatoes helps create the perfect sauce consistency without adding extra steps.
• Cheese: Cheddar melts beautifully, but a Mexican blend or Monterey Jack adds creaminess and a mild tang.

Storage & Reheat Guide

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the pasta seems dry. You can also microwave, covered, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. This skillet meal also freezes well—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Elbow macaroni or shells work great because they hold onto the sauce well, but penne, rotini, or even small rigatoni can be delicious substitutes.

Can I make this in advance for meal prep?

Yes, this dish is fantastic for meal prep. Just cook as directed, cool it completely, and store in portioned containers. It reheats well and tastes just as good the next day.

What toppings go well with Beef Taco Pasta Skillet?

Classic taco toppings like sour cream, sliced avocado, chopped green onions, jalapeños, or a squeeze of lime juice complement the flavors perfectly and add extra texture.

Is it okay to add vegetables to the skillet?

Definitely! Sauté diced bell peppers, corn kernels, or zucchini along with the onions for a veggie boost. You can also stir in fresh spinach at the end until wilted for added greens.

You Might Also Like

• Loaded Ground Beef Nacho Casserole – Another hearty, cheesy beef dish that’s perfect for sharing.
• Good Ole Fashioned Mac And Cheese – Classic comfort food done right with creamy, cheesy perfection.

Next Steps

Now that you’ve mastered this flavorful Beef Taco Pasta Skillet, try experimenting with different cheeses or adding your favorite veggies to customize it for your family’s tastes. It’s a versatile recipe that can evolve with your pantry and cravings. For even more easy and delicious dinner ideas, explore other simple skillet meals and casseroles that bring the same hearty satisfaction with minimal fuss. Enjoy cooking and savor every cheesy, spicy bite!

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