Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet

Say hello to your new weeknight favorite. This cheesy taco pasta is everything you love about Taco Tuesday all in one skillet, with tender pasta shells, seasoned meat, zesty salsa, and melty cheese. It is colorful, comforting, and comes together in just 30 minutes, making every bite a fiesta for your taste buds.

Serves: 4–6

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

8 oz medium pasta shells (about ½ box)

1 lb ground beef or ground turkey

½ cup diced onion (optional, adds sweetness)

1 tbsp minced garlic

1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade: 1 tsp chili powder, ½ tsp cumin, ½ tsp paprika, pinch salt)

¾ cup water

1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

½ cup shredded pepper jack cheese (optional, adds creamy spice)

½ cup corn kernels or black beans (optional, adds color and texture)

Fresh cilantro and diced tomatoes for garnish

Instructions:

Boil the pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey with diced onions and garlic until fully browned. Drain any excess fat.

Add taco seasoning and water to the skillet. Stir and simmer for 2–3 minutes until the water evaporates and the meat is fully coated in seasoning.

Add the cooked pasta, salsa, corn, or black beans (if using) to the skillet. Stir until everything is evenly coated.

Sprinkle the cheddar and pepper jack over the pasta. Cover the skillet for 1–2 minutes to let the cheese melt fully.

Top with fresh cilantro and diced tomatoes. Serve hot and enjoy a colorful, cheesy, flavorful twist on Taco Tuesday!