Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet Flavorful One-Pan Meal

by Isabella on July 11, 2025

Craving a quick and tasty meal? This Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet is perfect for you! It’s a hearty, one-pan dish combining zesty taco flavors with pasta and melted cheese. I’ll walk you through easy steps to make this flavorful meal in no time. Plus, I’ll share tips for customizing it to your taste. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will surely please your whole family!

$- 8 ounces of pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini work best) - 1 pound of ground beef or turkey - 1 packet of taco seasoning - 1 cup of diced tomatoes (fresh or canned) - 1 cup of sweet corn (canned or frozen) - 1 cup of black beans (rinsed and drained) - 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese - 1 cup of beef or chicken broth - 1 tablespoon of olive oil - 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder - 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder - Salt and pepper to taste You need these items to make a tasty cheesy taco pasta skillet. The pasta gives a fun texture. Ground beef or turkey adds protein. Taco seasoning brings bold flavors. Diced tomatoes add freshness. Sweet corn adds a nice crunch. Black beans boost fiber and heartiness. Cheddar cheese gives creaminess. Broth helps cook the pasta just right. Olive oil adds richness. Garlic and onion powders enhance the taste. Salt and pepper bring it all together. - Fresh cilantro - Lime wedges Garnishes can make your dish pop! Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor. Lime wedges give a zesty kick when squeezed over the top. - Use chicken or veggie broth instead of beef broth. - Swap ground turkey for ground beef for a lighter dish. - Try a different cheese like Monterey Jack for a twist. - Use quinoa or whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. These substitutes keep the dish fun and fresh. You can change the flavors based on what you have. It's all about making it work for you! {{ingredient_image_2}} Start with a large skillet. Pour in one tablespoon of olive oil and heat it over medium. Add one pound of ground beef or turkey to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat into small pieces. Cook the meat until it turns brown, which takes about 5 to 7 minutes. If there is extra fat, carefully drain it from the pan. Next, sprinkle one packet of taco seasoning over the meat. Mix it well to coat the meat evenly. Now it’s time to add more flavor. Pour in one cup of diced tomatoes, one cup of sweet corn, and one cup of black beans. Make sure the beans are rinsed and drained. Add one cup of beef or chicken broth to the mix. For extra taste, add half a teaspoon of garlic powder and half a teaspoon of onion powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are well combined. Increase the heat until the mixture starts to boil. Once it is boiling, add 8 ounces of pasta. You can use elbow macaroni or rotini; both work well. Make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid. Now, cover the skillet and turn the heat down to low. Let it simmer for about 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. When the pasta is tender, turn off the heat. Finally, stir in one cup of shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into a creamy sauce. To keep pasta firm, set a timer. Cook it for just 1-2 minutes less than the package says. When you add the pasta to the skillet, it will cook more in the sauce. Stir it often to prevent sticking. Taste a piece to check for doneness. It should be al dente, which means slightly firm. Use a large skillet for this meal. A wooden spoon helps mix ingredients well. A timer is handy for tracking cooking times. A measuring cup ensures you add the right amount of broth and other liquids. A spatula is great for serving the food once it's done. Add fresh herbs like cilantro for a fresh touch. Squeeze lime juice over the dish for a zesty kick. Consider using smoked paprika for a deeper flavor. You can also mix in some diced peppers or jalapeños if you like heat. These simple tweaks make your meal even more tasty. Pro Tips Use High-Quality Taco Seasoning: Opt for a premium taco seasoning mix to enhance the flavor of your dish. Homemade seasoning can also provide a fresher taste. Customize Your Protein: Feel free to substitute ground beef or turkey with other proteins like chicken or even plant-based options for a healthier twist. Make It Creamier: For an extra creamy texture, add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese along with the cheese before serving. Garnish for Flavor: Don't skip the fresh cilantro and lime juice; they add a burst of freshness that elevates the entire dish. {{image_4}} You can make a tasty vegetarian version. Swap the ground beef or turkey for a mix of black beans and lentils. Use the same taco seasoning for that great flavor. Add extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for more texture. This change keeps it hearty and satisfying. Want to switch it up? Try different pasta types. Penne or fusilli will work great too. For protein, you can use shredded chicken or even crumbled tofu. If you like more veggies, toss in spinach or diced carrots. Each swap brings new flavors to your dish. If you like it spicy, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also use spicy taco seasoning instead. For a milder kick, stir in some hot sauce at the end. Adjust the heat to suit your taste buds. Enjoy the zest! To keep your Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet fresh, let it cool first. This helps prevent condensation. Use an airtight container to store it. Place the container in the fridge. It can last for up to three days. If you need it longer, consider freezing. When it's time to eat, reheat in a skillet. Add a splash of broth to keep it moist. Heat it on medium until warmed through. Stir often to avoid burning. You can also use the microwave. Just cover it and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway. Freezing is a great option for this dish. Scoop portions into freezer-safe containers. Leave a little space at the top for expansion. Seal tightly and label with the date. It will keep well for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Yes, you can use whole wheat pasta. It adds a nutty taste and is healthier. Whole wheat pasta cooks a bit differently, so check the package for cooking times. Adjust the broth if needed. To spice things up, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can also use spicy taco seasoning. For more heat, try adding cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes. Start with a little, then taste before adding more. This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or tortilla chips. You can also serve it with guacamole or salsa on the side. Sour cream adds creaminess, while lime wedges give a zesty kick. Enjoy it with your favorite toppings! In this blog post, I explored how to make a cheesy taco pasta skillet. We discussed key ingredients, optional garnishes, and some substitutes. You learned step-by-step cooking methods, tips to avoid overcooked pasta, and tools that make cooking easier. I shared ways to adapt the dish, storage tips, and answered common questions. This meal is fun, easy, and can fit many tastes. Enjoy making this dish for a quick and tasty dinner!$

Why I Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one skillet, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal.
Flavor Packed: With the combination of taco seasoning, tomatoes, and cheese, every bite is bursting with flavor.
Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients like the protein or add your favorite toppings to suit your taste.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet

– 8 ounces of pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini work best)

– 1 pound of ground beef or turkey

– 1 packet of taco seasoning

– 1 cup of diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)

– 1 cup of sweet corn (canned or frozen)

– 1 cup of black beans (rinsed and drained)

– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese

– 1 cup of beef or chicken broth

– 1 tablespoon of olive oil

– 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder

– 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder

– Salt and pepper to taste

You need these items to make a tasty cheesy taco pasta skillet. The pasta gives a fun texture. Ground beef or turkey adds protein. Taco seasoning brings bold flavors. Diced tomatoes add freshness. Sweet corn adds a nice crunch. Black beans boost fiber and heartiness. Cheddar cheese gives creaminess. Broth helps cook the pasta just right. Olive oil adds richness. Garlic and onion powders enhance the taste. Salt and pepper bring it all together.

Optional Garnishes

– Fresh cilantro

– Lime wedges

Garnishes can make your dish pop! Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor. Lime wedges give a zesty kick when squeezed over the top.

Ingredient Substitutes

– Use chicken or veggie broth instead of beef broth.

– Swap ground turkey for ground beef for a lighter dish.

– Try a different cheese like Monterey Jack for a twist.

– Use quinoa or whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.

These substitutes keep the dish fun and fresh. You can change the flavors based on what you have. It’s all about making it work for you!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Meat

Start with a large skillet. Pour in one tablespoon of olive oil and heat it over medium. Add one pound of ground beef or turkey to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat into small pieces. Cook the meat until it turns brown, which takes about 5 to 7 minutes. If there is extra fat, carefully drain it from the pan. Next, sprinkle one packet of taco seasoning over the meat. Mix it well to coat the meat evenly.

Combining Ingredients

Now it’s time to add more flavor. Pour in one cup of diced tomatoes, one cup of sweet corn, and one cup of black beans. Make sure the beans are rinsed and drained. Add one cup of beef or chicken broth to the mix. For extra taste, add half a teaspoon of garlic powder and half a teaspoon of onion powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are well combined.

Cooking the Pasta

Increase the heat until the mixture starts to boil. Once it is boiling, add 8 ounces of pasta. You can use elbow macaroni or rotini; both work well. Make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid. Now, cover the skillet and turn the heat down to low. Let it simmer for about 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. When the pasta is tender, turn off the heat. Finally, stir in one cup of shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into a creamy sauce.

Tips & Tricks

How to Avoid Overcooking Pasta

To keep pasta firm, set a timer. Cook it for just 1-2 minutes less than the package says. When you add the pasta to the skillet, it will cook more in the sauce. Stir it often to prevent sticking. Taste a piece to check for doneness. It should be al dente, which means slightly firm.

Recommended Tools for Cooking

Use a large skillet for this meal. A wooden spoon helps mix ingredients well. A timer is handy for tracking cooking times. A measuring cup ensures you add the right amount of broth and other liquids. A spatula is great for serving the food once it’s done.

Enhancing the Flavor Profile

Add fresh herbs like cilantro for a fresh touch. Squeeze lime juice over the dish for a zesty kick. Consider using smoked paprika for a deeper flavor. You can also mix in some diced peppers or jalapeños if you like heat. These simple tweaks make your meal even more tasty.

Pro Tips

Use High-Quality Taco Seasoning: Opt for a premium taco seasoning mix to enhance the flavor of your dish. Homemade seasoning can also provide a fresher taste.
Customize Your Protein: Feel free to substitute ground beef or turkey with other proteins like chicken or even plant-based options for a healthier twist.
Make It Creamier: For an extra creamy texture, add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese along with the cheese before serving.
Garnish for Flavor: Don’t skip the fresh cilantro and lime juice; they add a burst of freshness that elevates the entire dish.

Variations

Vegetarian Option

You can make a tasty vegetarian version. Swap the ground beef or turkey for a mix of black beans and lentils. Use the same taco seasoning for that great flavor. Add extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for more texture. This change keeps it hearty and satisfying.

Ingredient Swaps for Different Tastes

Want to switch it up? Try different pasta types. Penne or fusilli will work great too. For protein, you can use shredded chicken or even crumbled tofu. If you like more veggies, toss in spinach or diced carrots. Each swap brings new flavors to your dish.

Adding Spice and Heat

If you like it spicy, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also use spicy taco seasoning instead. For a milder kick, stir in some hot sauce at the end. Adjust the heat to suit your taste buds. Enjoy the zest!

Storage Info

Proper Storage Techniques

To keep your Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet fresh, let it cool first. This helps prevent condensation. Use an airtight container to store it. Place the container in the fridge. It can last for up to three days. If you need it longer, consider freezing.

Reheating Tips

When it’s time to eat, reheat in a skillet. Add a splash of broth to keep it moist. Heat it on medium until warmed through. Stir often to avoid burning. You can also use the microwave. Just cover it and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.

Freezing for Future Meals

Freezing is a great option for this dish. Scoop portions into freezer-safe containers. Leave a little space at the top for expansion. Seal tightly and label with the date. It will keep well for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat pasta instead?

Yes, you can use whole wheat pasta. It adds a nutty taste and is healthier. Whole wheat pasta cooks a bit differently, so check the package for cooking times. Adjust the broth if needed.

How to make this dish spicier?

To spice things up, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can also use spicy taco seasoning. For more heat, try adding cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes. Start with a little, then taste before adding more.

What can I serve with Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet?

This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or tortilla chips. You can also serve it with guacamole or salsa on the side. Sour cream adds creaminess, while lime wedges give a zesty kick. Enjoy it with your favorite toppings!

In this blog post, I explored how to make a cheesy taco pasta skillet. We discussed key ingredients, optional garnishes, and some substitutes. You learned step-by-step cooking methods, tips to avoid overcooked pasta, and tools that make cooking easier. I shared ways to adapt the dish, storage tips, and answered common questions. This meal is fun, easy, and can fit many tastes. Enjoy making this dish for a quick and tasty dinne

Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet

A delicious and easy one-pan meal combining pasta, ground meat, and cheesy goodness with a taco twist.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Course Main Course

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 4

Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients

8 ounces pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini)
1 pound ground beef or turkey
1 packet taco seasoning
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 cup sweet corn
1 cup black beans
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup beef or chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
0.5 teaspoon onion powder
to taste salt and pepper
optional fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish

Instructions

In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey, using a wooden spoon to break it up. Cook until the meat is fully browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Carefully drain any excess fat from the pan. Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the meat and mix thoroughly to ensure the meat is well coated.
Pour in the diced tomatoes, corn, and black beans. Add the broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together until combined.
Increase the heat until the mixture reaches a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta, ensuring it is fully submerged in the liquid.
Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, take the skillet off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into a creamy consistency.
Serve the dish hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a zesty finish, if desired.

Notes

Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime for added flavor.

Keyword cheesy, pasta, skillet, taco