Description
This comforting One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta combines seasoned ground beef, rotini pasta, and a zesty salsa sauce, all cooked together in a single skillet. Topped with melted Mexican-style cheese and optional fresh garnishes, it’s a quick and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Pinch of black pepper
- 1 ounce packet taco seasoning (or about 3 1/2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup jarred mild salsa
- 8 ounces uncooked rotini pasta
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican-style cheese
Optional Toppings
- Chopped tomatoes
- Avocado
- Crushed tortilla chips
- Chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat the Skillet: Place a large deep skillet on the stove over medium heat to warm up before adding the ingredients.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and season with salt and a pinch of black pepper. Stir occasionally as it cooks thoroughly until no longer pink.
- Drain Excess Grease: Once the beef is cooked, carefully drain out any grease to avoid a greasy dish.
- Add Seasoning and Liquids: Stir the taco seasoning into the cooked beef. Then add water, salsa, and the uncooked rotini pasta, mixing everything together evenly.
- Simmer the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil, then stir, cover the skillet, and reduce the heat to a low simmer. Let it cook for about 15 minutes or until the pasta becomes tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Incorporate Cheese: Turn off the heat, then stir in the shredded Mexican-style cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season and Serve: Taste the pasta and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately topped with optional garnishes like chopped tomatoes, avocado, crushed tortilla chips, or cilantro for added freshness and texture.
Notes
- Store-bought jarred salsa brands like Pace, Ortega, or similar (including generic versions) work best for this recipe to achieve the ideal flavor and consistency.
- Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken as a leaner protein option.
- For a spicier kick, use medium or hot salsa instead of mild.
- Make sure to watch the pasta closely while simmering to avoid overcooking or sticking to the pan.
