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This cheesy southwest taco pasta has become my go to dinner when I need something cozy bold and fast without fussing over multiple pans or complicated prep
I whipped this up after a long day and the kids devoured it with smiles and zero leftovers it is that comforting
Ingredients
- Olive oil: adds richness and helps brown the meat
- Ground beef: brings hearty flavor use 85 percent lean for best texture
- Yellow onion: sweetens and deepens the base
- Red green and yellow bell peppers: offer vibrant color and a touch of sweetness
- Garlic: builds flavor with every bite use fresh for best results
- Taco seasoning: ties the dish together with warm smoky spices
- Smoked paprika: enhances depth especially if you want a little BBQ note
- Salt and black pepper: balance all the flavors
- Medium pasta shells: hold the sauce in every curve choose sturdy shapes
- Beef or chicken broth: creates a base for simmering and boosts savory notes
- Sour cream: adds creaminess and slight tang
- Cheddar cheese: melts beautifully and delivers bold cheese flavor
- Pepper jack cheese: optional but gives an extra spicy kick
- Cream cheese: thickens the sauce and makes it silky smooth
- Jalapeno slices cilantro and lime: optional for garnish and a fresh finish
Step by Step Instructions
- Boil the Pasta
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt bring to a boil and add pasta shells cook until just al dente about 7 minutes then drain and set aside
- Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat olive oil in the same pot or large skillet over medium heat add ground beef and cook breaking it apart until browned and fully cooked about 6 to 8 minutes drain excess grease if necessary
- Sauté the Vegetables
- Add diced onion and all three bell peppers to the meat stir and sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant
- Season the Mixture
- Sprinkle in taco seasoning smoked paprika salt and pepper stir thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly with spice mix
- Simmer with Broth and Pasta
- Return the cooked pasta to the pot pour in the broth and stir to combine bring the mixture to a low simmer so the pasta absorbs the seasoned broth
- Make It Cheesy
- Reduce heat and stir in sour cream cheddar cheese optional pepper jack and cream cheese stir constantly until cheeses melt and create a thick velvety sauce
- Finish and Serve
- Let the mixture simmer for another 5 minutes stirring occasionally until the sauce fully thickens serve hot with your favorite garnishes
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You Must Know
I love using my homegrown bell peppers in this the color and freshness just pop and make this feel extra special every time
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for best results reheat with a splash of milk or broth in the microwave or a small skillet on low heat
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have ground beef ground turkey or chicken both work well for a lighter take no broth on hand use water with a pinch of bouillon or a splash of tomato juice for extra depth
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Serving Suggestions
Try serving this pasta with crunchy tortilla chips a crisp green salad or a side of grilled corn it pairs beautifully with anything fresh or crunchy
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any short pasta like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni. Shells work well to hold the sauce, but other types work too.
- → How spicy is this dish?
It's mildly spicy from the taco seasoning and pepper jack cheese. For extra heat, add jalapeños or hot sauce to taste.
- → Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use plant-based ground meat or skip the beef and add black beans or extra veggies like corn or zucchini.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
- → Can I freeze this pasta?
Yes, it freezes well. The sauce may separate slightly upon thawing, but a quick stir while reheating will bring it back together.
- → What toppings go well with this dish?
Try sliced jalapeños, fresh cilantro, green onions, crushed tortilla chips, or a squeeze of lime for added flavor and crunch.