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Budget-Friendly Taco Pasta Skillet

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A quick, easy, and budget-friendly taco pasta skillet perfect for busy weeknights. This comforting and flavorful one-pan meal combines taco spices with creamy cheese and pasta for a satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey (lean)
  • 8 ounces uncooked pasta (elbow macaroni or small shells; gluten-free pasta optional)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups beef broth or water
  • 1/2 cup salsa (optional but recommended)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat for about 2 minutes until shimmering.
  2. Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent, stirring occasionally. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add ground beef or turkey, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for 6-8 minutes until no pink remains, stirring frequently. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  4. Sprinkle taco seasoning over the meat and stir well to coat evenly. Add a tablespoon of water if spices stick.
  5. Pour in diced tomatoes with juices and beef broth or water. Stir to combine.
  6. Add uncooked pasta and stir everything together, pushing the mixture down so pasta is mostly submerged in liquid.
  7. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of water if it looks dry.
  8. Remove lid and stir in salsa. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
  9. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the skillet. Cover and let cheese melt for 3-5 minutes off the heat.
  10. Gently stir to combine melted cheese and taco pasta. Serve hot, optionally garnished with sour cream or chopped fresh cilantro.

Notes

If pasta isn’t tender after 15 minutes, add more broth or water and continue cooking. For vegetarian versions, substitute meat with lentils, black beans, or tofu. Use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for dairy-free options. Pre-cooked meat can be used to save time. Adding salsa is optional but adds great flavor. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of water or broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: taco pasta, budget-friendly dinner, easy weeknight meal, skillet recipe, taco seasoning, cheesy pasta, quick dinner

Find it online: https://sparklespoon.com/budget-friendly-taco-pasta-skillet-recipe-easy-weeknight-dinner-idea/