Hearty Mexican Taco Pasta Shells

by

Hearty Mexican Taco Pasta Shells

Taco Pasta is the ultimate comfort food with a south-of-the-border twist. This quick and satisfying one-pot dinner combines tender pasta shells with juicy seasoned ground beef, creamy melted cheeses, and bold Mexican flavors from salsa, taco seasoning, and green chiles. It’s ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Bold and flavorful: Loaded with spices, salsa, and green chiles.
  • Creamy and cheesy: Melty cheddar and pepper jack coat every bite.
  • Family-friendly: A kid-approved mashup of tacos and pasta.
  • One-pot meal: Simple cleanup and minimal prep.

Ingredients

For 8 servings:

  • 2 teaspoons salt, to salt the pasta water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 1 teaspoon salt (for sautéing)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef (80% lean recommended)
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade)
  • 16 ounces mild salsa
  • 4 ounces diced green chiles
  • 1 pound medium pasta shells
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup shredded pepper jack cheese

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 2 cups of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and 1 teaspoon salt. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for 20 seconds until fragrant.

3. Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef and taco seasoning to the skillet. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked.

4. Add Salsa and Chiles

Stir in the salsa and diced green chiles. Simmer for 3 minutes, then remove the pan from heat.

5. Combine Pasta and Meat

Return the drained pasta to the pot. Pour in the meat mixture and place the pot back on the stove over medium heat.

6. Add the Cheese

Stir in the shredded cheddar and pepper jack cheese along with 1 cup of reserved pasta water. Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce coats the pasta. Add more reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your preferred consistency.

7. Taste and Serve

Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot and enjoy!

Helpful Tips

  • Let the beef sit at room temperature before cooking so it sears instead of steams.
  • Use a large skillet to give the beef room to brown properly.
  • Don’t skip the reserved pasta water – it adds creaminess and helps bind the sauce.
  • Watch the heat when combining everything. Keep it medium to avoid burning the pasta.
  • Customize it by adding black beans, corn, or topping with chopped cilantro or sour cream.

Suggested Add-Ons

  • Chopped fresh cilantro
  • Sliced black olives
  • Diced avocado or guacamole
  • Crushed tortilla chips on top for crunch

Equipment

  • Large pot for pasta
  • Heavy skillet or sauté pan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Colander

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving (1.5 cups)
Calories: 425 | Carbohydrates: 51g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 6g | Sodium: 1833mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 5g
Vitamin A: 913IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 194mg | Iron: 3mg

Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on ingredients and brands used.

Leave a Comment