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Cheesy Southwest Taco Pasta Skillet

This Cheesy Southwest Taco Pasta Skillet is a one-pan wonder combining bold taco flavors with creamy, melty cheese and pasta for an easy, flavorful dinner.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces uncooked pasta small shapes like elbow macaroni, rotini, or shells
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing the veggies and browning the meat
  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey
  • 1 onion diced, yellow or white
  • 1 bell pepper diced, red, green, or yellow
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 cup corn kernels fresh, frozen, or canned
  • 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies including liquid, mild or hot
  • 1 cup beef or chicken broth used to cook the pasta in the skillet
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese sharp
  • 0.5 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 0.25 cup fresh cilantro chopped, optional
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Cook 8 ounces of pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and bell pepper and sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
  • Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Add 1 pound ground beef or turkey, break it apart, and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
  • Sprinkle taco seasoning over the meat and vegetables, stirring well to combine.
  • Add 1 cup corn kernels and 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (including liquid). Pour in 1 cup beef or chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
  • Reduce heat to low and add cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.
  • Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the top. Cover and let the cheese melt for 3-5 minutes.
  • Remove skillet from heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot.

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Cheese Grater

Notes

  • Use ground turkey for a leaner, lighter version while keeping great flavor.
  • For a saucier dish, add an extra 1/2 cup broth during cooking.
  • Leftovers reheat well with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.
  • Add extra veggies like zucchini or black beans for more nutrition and texture.
  • Freeze cooked portions up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.