This Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta combines the rich flavors of taco seasoning with the creamy goodness of Velveeta and cheddar cheese. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends and family!
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds ground beef
- 1 box small shell pasta
- 1 block (16 oz) Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 handful sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 packs taco seasoning
- 1 can (10 oz) original Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chilies)
- 1/2 cup milk
Directions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.
2. Cook the Pasta:
While the beef is browning, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shell pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Melt the Cheese:
In the same pan where you cooked the beef, add the cubed Velveeta cheese and 1/2 cup of milk. Stir continuously over medium heat until the cheese is fully melted and smooth.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Add the cooked shell pasta and browned ground beef to the melted cheese mixture. Stir to coat the pasta and beef evenly.
5. Add Taco Flavor:
Sprinkle in the two packets of taco seasoning and stir well to distribute the seasoning throughout the mixture. Pour in the can of Rotel (including the liquid) and mix until fully combined.
6. Finish with Cheddar Cheese:
Add a handful of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and mix everything together until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated.
7. Serve:
Serve the Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta warm and enjoy! Feel free to garnish with additional shredded cheddar, sour cream, or cilantro if desired.
Serving:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
Variations:
- Spicier Version: Add chopped jalapeños or use hot Rotel to increase the heat level.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or beans.
- Extra Creamy: Stir in some sour cream at the end for a richer texture.
Storage:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
FAQs:
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make it ahead of time. Just reheat on the stovetop with a little milk to help bring back the creaminess.
Q: Can I substitute the Velveeta with another type of cheese?
A: While Velveeta gives a smooth, creamy texture, you can substitute it with shredded cheddar or a mix of cheeses. You may need to add a little more milk to achieve the same creaminess.
Conclusion:
This Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is a comfort food delight that blends the flavors of taco night with the cheesy goodness of mac and cheese. It’s quick to make, customizable, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers!
