Taco Pasta Skillet
This comforting one-pan meal combines the zesty flavors of taco night with the satisfying texture of tender pasta. It is a quick, kid-friendly dinner that saves time on cleanup while delivering bold, savory satisfaction.
- Prep time: 18 minutes
- Cook time: 17 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup diced yellow onion
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup chunky salsa
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and onion, cooking until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent.
- Drain any excess grease and stir in the taco seasoning.
- Pour in the beef broth, salsa, and dry rotini pasta.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and cook for 10 to 12 minutes until the pasta is tender.
- Stir in the sour cream and half of the shredded cheese until creamy.
- Top with the remaining cheese, cover for one minute to melt, and garnish with cilantro before serving.
Tips
- Use cavatappi or penne if you do not have rotini on hand.
- Add a can of drained black beans to increase the protein content.
- Covering the pan tightly is essential to ensure the pasta cooks evenly in the broth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken works perfectly in this recipe.
How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Is this dish very spicy?
The heat level depends on the salsa and taco seasoning you choose; use mild versions for a kid-friendly result.