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The BEST Taco Past

The BEST Taco Pasta Bake is a crowd-pleasing, comforting dish that combines two favorite meals: tacos and pasta! This hearty casserole is filled with seasoned ground beef, pasta, melted cheese, and all the taco flavors you love.
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Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing spoon or spatula
  • Cheese grater (if using block cheese)

Ingredients
  

  • For the Pasta Bake:
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning
  • 1 10 oz can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
  • 1 8 oz can tomato sauce
  • 1 8 oz package elbow macaroni or any pasta shape you prefer
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1½ cups shredded Mexican blend cheese or more cheddar, if preferred
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion diced (optional)
  • 1 bell pepper diced (optional)
  • 1 cup frozen corn optional
  • For the Topping:
  • 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
  • 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
  • Sour cream or salsa for serving (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease or spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
  • Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  • Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, onion, and bell pepper (if using), and cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
  • Season the Beef: Stir in the taco seasoning, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until the mixture is well combined and heated through. If using, add the frozen corn and cook for another 2 minutes.
  • Assemble the Bake: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sour cream, and the beef mixture. Stir in cheddar cheese and Mexican blend cheese, then mix until evenly combined.
  • Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
  • Add the Topping: Sprinkle the top with crushed tortilla chips and an additional Mexican blend cheese.
  • Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
  • Serve: Let the taco pasta bake cool for 5 minutes. Top with fresh cilantro and serve with sour cream or salsa on the side.

Notes

Add More Spice: For a spicier version, add some chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
Use Ground Turkey: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Make It Vegetarian: Skip the ground beef and add black beans or more vegetables (like zucchini or mushrooms) for a vegetarian version.