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The BEST Taco Pasta

The BEST Taco Pasta: A Family Favorite Ready in 30 Minutes

The BEST Taco Pasta combines pasta shells with zesty meat sauce and is ready in just 30 minutes, making it a family favorite.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Large Shells Pasta Opt for a rough texture for best flavor.
For the Meat Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Canola Oil Olive oil can be a healthier substitute.
  • 1 pound Ground Beef (85/15 Lean) Swap for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Shallots can be used for a milder taste.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Freshly minced is best.
  • 2 tablespoons Taco Seasoning Homemade is preferred for freshness.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Adds an earthy note.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce Essential for balanced flavors.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Adjust to your liking.
  • 3/4 cup Water Beef broth can be used for richer flavor.
  • 1 cup Jarred Salsa Choose mild or spicy based on preference.
For the Cheese
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Freshly shredded lends the best taste.
For Seasoning
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
For Garnish
  • optional Garnishes Extra cheese, crushed tortilla chips, sour cream, and chopped parsley.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet
  • Colander
  • Wooden Spoon

Method
 

Steps
  1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the large shells pasta and cook until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of canola oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat.
  3. Lower heat to medium. Stir in diced yellow onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until onions are translucent.
  4. Sprinkle in taco seasoning, oregano, Worcestershire sauce, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Add ¾ cup of water and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  5. Lower the heat again and fold in the cooked pasta shells. Pour in jarred salsa and half of the cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
  6. Scoop into bowls and top with remaining cheddar cheese, crushed tortilla chips, sour cream, and chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Cook the pasta al dente and shred cheese fresh for the best results.

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