Taco Pasta
Looking for a unique dish that combines the flavors of tacos with the comfort of pasta? Taco pasta is a delightful meal that brings together seasoned ground meat, vibrant vegetables, and tender pasta, all coated in a rich, zesty sauce. This one-pot wonder is not only easy to make but also sure to please the entire family. Get ready to enjoy a hearty and satisfying dinner that’s packed with flavor and creativity!
Ingredients
– 8 oz rotini pasta
– 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
– 1 cup black beans (canned, rinsed)
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
– 1 avocado (for topping)
– Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of approximately 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of taco pasta contains approximately 450 calories, 22g of protein, 15g of fat, and 60g of carbohydrates. This is based on a serving size of 1/4 of the total dish, making it a filling option for a single meal.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground meat over medium heat until fully cooked.
3. Drain excess fat from the skillet.
4. Add taco seasoning and stir to combine with the meat.
5. Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth; stir well.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
7. Stir in the corn and black beans; cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
8. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix until well combined.
9. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top; cover and let it melt for 2-3 minutes.
10. Serve hot, topped with avocado slices and fresh cilantro.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily customize taco pasta by substituting ground meat with plant-based alternatives or using gluten-free pasta. Additionally, feel free to swap out the beans or add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to enhance the dish.
Serving and Pairings
Taco pasta pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread. For an extra kick, serve with salsa or sour cream on the side. This dish also goes well with a refreshing beverage like iced tea or lemonade.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover taco pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it appears dry. Taco pasta can be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
- Make sure to drain excess fat from the meat for a healthier dish.
- Don’t skip the simmering step; it enhances the flavors.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste; it’s okay to add more spices.
- Be careful not to burn the cheese when melting.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Experiment with different cheeses for variety.
- Top with sliced jalapeños for extra heat.
- Make it a one-pan meal by adding vegetables.
FAQs
Can I make taco pasta vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the ground meat with black beans, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative to create a delicious vegetarian version.
What type of pasta works best for taco pasta?
Rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni are great choices as they hold sauce well. However, feel free to use any pasta you prefer.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to increase the nutritional value and flavor.
How can I make taco pasta spicy?
Add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the mix for a spicy kick.
Is taco pasta good for meal prep?
Yes, taco pasta stores well and can be easily reheated, making it an excellent option for meal prepping.
Conclusion
Taco pasta is a fun and flavorful dish that combines the best of both worlds—Mexican and Italian cuisines. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for any night of the week. With endless possibilities for customization, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Taco Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup corn canned or frozen
- 1 cup black beans canned, rinsed
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or Mexican blend
- 1 avocado for topping
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground meat over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Add taco seasoning and stir to combine with the meat.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth; stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the corn and black beans; cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix until well combined.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top; cover and let it melt for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve hot, topped with avocado slices and fresh cilantro.
