Ingredients:
- 1 box (16 ounces) pasta (such as bow tie, penne, or rotini)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1/2 block (8 ounces) Velveeta cheese, cut into cubes
- 1/2 jar (about 1 cup) your favorite salsa
- Shredded cheese and additional salsa for topping (optional)
- Chopped fresh cilantro and sliced green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Prepare the Cheesy Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the Velveeta cheese and salsa together, stirring occasionally until smooth and well combined.
- Once the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy, remove it from heat and set it aside.
- Cook the Seasoned Ground Beef:
- In a separate large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink and has browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning mix over the cooked ground beef and stir well to combine, allowing the seasoning to coat the meat evenly.
- Combine Pasta, Cheese Sauce, and Seasoned Beef:
- In the pot used to cook the pasta, combine the cooked and drained pasta, seasoned ground beef, and the prepared cheesy salsa sauce.
- Mix everything together until the pasta and meat are evenly coated with the cheesy sauce.
- Serve:
- Transfer the cheesy taco pasta to a serving dish.
- If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top and spoon additional salsa over the dish for extra flavor.
- Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and sliced green onions, if you like.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious cheesy taco pasta!
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite toppings like sour cream, sliced jalapeƱos, or guacamole. Enjoy your flavorful and comforting cheesy taco pasta!
Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe? A1: Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or spaghetti. Feel free to experiment and choose the pasta shape you like best.
Q2: Can I substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken? A2: Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time and seasoning according to your taste preferences.
Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A3: Yes, you can prepare the components of the dish (cooked pasta, seasoned meat, and cheesy sauce) ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the components separately and then combine them before serving for the best taste and texture.
Q4: How long does the leftovers last in the refrigerator? A4: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to reheat the pasta thoroughly before serving again.
Q5: Can I freeze Cheesy Taco Pasta? A5: While pasta dishes with creamy sauces don’t freeze exceptionally well due to potential texture changes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a little extra salsa or cheese sauce to refresh the creaminess.
Q6: Is this recipe spicy? A6: The spice level depends on the taco seasoning and salsa you use. If you prefer a milder dish, choose a mild taco seasoning and salsa. For a spicier version, opt for medium or hot varieties.
Q7: Can I make this dish vegetarian? A7: Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with plant-based ground meat alternatives or additional vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers. Ensure the taco seasoning used is vegetarian-friendly.
Q8: Can I customize the toppings? A8: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the toppings based on your preferences. Common toppings include shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced olives, guacamole, or jalapeƱos. Get creative and add your favorite taco toppings for extra flavor and texture!