This Taco Pasta Casserole is the ultimate fusion dish, bringing together the comforting flavors of cheesy pasta with the bold, savory elements of a classic taco. Perfect for a busy weeknight or family gathering, this casserole is hearty, flavorful, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of taco-seasoned beef, creamy pasta, and melted cheese makes it ideal for everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Family-friendly: Taco and pasta lovers alike will enjoy this fun, comforting dish.
- Perfect for leftovers: It reheats well, making it great for meal prep or easy lunches.
- Quick and easy: Simple ingredients and easy steps make this casserole a go-to for busy nights.
- Customizable: Feel free to add or swap ingredients to suit your taste.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 3 cups rotini pasta, uncooked
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Prep and Cook Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6-8 people
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the beef is browned and the onions are softened.
Step 4: Add Seasoning
Once the beef is fully cooked, add the taco seasoning and 1/4 cup of water. Stir well to combine and let simmer until the mixture thickens.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, seasoned beef mixture, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, cream cheese, and chicken broth. Stir everything together until the ingredients are well combined and the cream cheese is evenly distributed.
Step 6: Transfer to Casserole Dish
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 7: Add Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the pasta mixture, covering it completely.
Step 8: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs or green onions if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Taco Pasta Casserole
- Adjust the spice level: Use mild or hot taco seasoning to adjust the spice level. You can also add a few jalapeño slices for extra heat.
- Use any pasta shape: Rotini holds the sauce well, but penne or elbow macaroni work great, too.
- Make it healthier: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to lighten it up.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezer: This casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before placing in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole in advance?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the bake time if baking from cold.
What toppings can I add?
Try adding a dollop of sour cream, fresh avocado, green onions, or even a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips on top for extra flavor and crunch.
Is there a vegetarian option?
Yes, substitute the ground beef with more black beans or a plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.
Wrapping Up: A Comforting, Flavorful Casserole for All
This Taco Pasta Casserole is a fusion of two favorites in one comforting, cheesy dish. It’s a family-friendly recipe that’s quick to make and perfect for sharing, with hearty flavors and creamy texture that make it a hit every time. Serve it as-is or add your favorite toppings for a personalized touch!
More Comforting Casserole Recipes to Try
- Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Casserole: A classic creamy casserole with tender chicken and broccoli.
- Stuffed Pepper Casserole: All the flavors of stuffed peppers in an easy, layered casserole.
- Baked Ziti with Sausage: Italian-inspired pasta bake with sausage, marinara, and cheese.
Loved This Recipe?
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