Description
Cheesy Taco Pasta Shells is a flavorful and easy-to-make dinner dish combining tender pasta shells with seasoned ground beef, tangy salsa, creamy sour cream, and melted cheddar cheese. This all-in-one skillet recipe delivers a perfect blend of Mexican-inspired spices and comforting pasta, ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Meat
- 12 oz pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
Seasoning and Sauces
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Dairy
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Vegetables and Garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Others
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside to be combined later.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Add Seasoning and Salsa: Stir in the taco seasoning packet and salsa with the browned beef. Mix well and let it cook together for another 3 to 4 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Sour Cream: Reduce the skillet heat to low, then add the cooked pasta shells and sour cream. Stir gently until everything is thoroughly combined and creamy.
- Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the pasta and beef mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt for 2 to 3 minutes over low heat.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the lid and sprinkle chopped green onions over the cheesy taco pasta shells for a fresh, mild onion flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For a lighter version, use lean ground beef or substitute ground turkey.
- You can use different types of pasta if shells aren’t available, such as rotini or elbows.
- Adjust the amount of taco seasoning based on your preferred spice level.
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of milk or a bit more sour cream when combining.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat easily in a skillet or microwave.
