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Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta Recipe | Easy & Delicious Meal

Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta Recipe | Easy & Delicious Meal

Description

Hi, food lovers! If you’ve been searching for a hearty and cheesy meal that combines the best of both pasta and taco worlds, you’re in the right place. This Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta recipe is a quick, flavorful dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. With simple ingredients like ground beef, Velveeta cheese, and taco seasoning, you’ll have a meal that’s rich in flavor and easy to whip up. Let’s dive into this comforting recipe that’s sure to please any crowd!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds of ground beef
  • 1 box of small pasta shells (about 16 oz)
  • 1 block (16 oz) of Velveeta cheese, cut into cubes
  • 1 handful of sharp cheddar cheese (about 1/2 cup, shredded)
  • 2 packs of taco seasoning
  • 1 can of original Rotel (10 oz)
  • 1/2 cup of milk

Optional Substitutions:

  • Ground turkey instead of ground beef for a leaner option.
  • For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta shells.
  • Swap out Velveeta for another processed cheese if you prefer a different taste or consistency.
  • For those sensitive to spice, use mild Rotel instead of original.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef

Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Break up the meat as it cooks, ensuring it’s evenly browned. Once fully cooked, drain off any excess grease to avoid a greasy sauce later.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

While the beef is browning, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the small pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once the pasta is cooked, drain and set aside.

Step 3: Melt the Cheese

In the same skillet where you browned the beef, reduce the heat to low and add the cubed Velveeta cheese. Stir in the 1/2 cup of milk, and continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and smooth. This creates the creamy base for the dish.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Once the cheese sauce is smooth, add the drained pasta to the skillet, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated with the cheese. Add the cooked ground beef back to the skillet and mix well.

Step 5: Add Taco Flavor

Next, sprinkle the taco seasoning packets over the pasta mixture, and pour in the can of Rotel (including the juices). Stir everything together until the seasoning is evenly distributed, and the Rotel adds a bit of extra zest and flavor to the dish.

Step 6: Finish with Cheddar Cheese

Finally, sprinkle a handful of sharp cheddar cheese over the pasta, stir to combine, and allow the cheese to melt into the mixture. This gives the dish an extra layer of cheesy goodness.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is mixed and the cheddar is melted, your Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is ready to serve! Garnish with some fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for a truly indulgent meal.

Equipment

Notes

  • Use fresh ingredients whenever possible, such as freshly shredded cheddar cheese for better melting and flavor.
  • Add extra veggies like diced bell peppers or onions to the beef while it’s browning for more nutrition and flavor.
  • If you like extra spice, consider using a spicy version of Rotel or adding a chopped jalapeño.
  • Make it ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge. Simply reheat before serving.

Find it online: https://optimalrecipes.com/cheesy-beef-taco-pasta-recipe-easy-delicious-meal/