Basic Taco Pasta Casserole is a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful dish that combines the delicious flavors of tacos with the heartiness of pasta. It’s a simple, family-friendly casserole that’s perfect for weeknight dinners!
Basic Taco Pasta Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or turkey
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (or just diced tomatoes)
- 1 (4 oz) can of diced green chilies (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot based on your preference)
- 1 cup sour cream (optional, for creaminess)
- 8 oz pasta (rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni work well)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 1/2 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- Sliced jalapeños (optional, for extra heat)
- Crumbled tortilla chips (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions, drain, and set aside.
- Cook the Ground Meat:
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Season the Meat:
- Add the taco seasoning to the cooked meat and onion mixture. Stir well, and add in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, green chilies (if using), and salsa. Stir to combine.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Combine the Pasta and Meat Mixture:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and the taco meat mixture. Stir in the sour cream (if using) for extra creaminess.
- Transfer the pasta and meat mixture to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Add the Cheese:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and Mexican blend cheese (if using) evenly over the top of the casserole.
- If you like a bit of crunch, you can top the casserole with crumbled tortilla chips before baking.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you added tortilla chips, they should be golden and slightly crispy.
- Serve:
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of Mexican rice, a simple salad, or some guacamole for a complete meal.
- If you like, you can also serve this casserole with a side of warm tortillas or taco shells for an extra taco-inspired touch.
This Basic Taco Pasta Casserole is a flavorful and filling dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. It’s cheesy, satisfying, and packed with all the great taco flavors! Enjoy! Let me know how it turns out!