Cheesy Taco Beef Pasta Bake

If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful dinner that combines the zest of taco seasoning with the creamy, cheesy goodness of pasta, you’ve landed in the right place. This Cheesy Taco Beef Pasta Bake is an absolute crowd-pleaser that brings together tender penne pasta, succulent ground beef seasoned with taco spices, and a melty cheese topping that’s impossible to resist. It’s an easy, one-dish meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers, offering a festive twist on classic pasta bakes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to get excited about this Cheesy Taco Beef Pasta Bake. First, it’s loaded with hearty ingredients like black beans and corn, adding texture and nutrition to every bite. The combination of sharp cheddar and spicy pepper jack cheeses creates a luscious, gooey topping that pulls apart beautifully. Plus, the taco seasoning infuses the dish with bold, southwest flavors that keep things interesting. This recipe is straightforward to prepare, making it ideal for both seasoned cooks and kitchen newbies alike. And since it’s all baked in one dish, cleanup is a breeze!

Shopping List

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning (check for your preferred brand)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or canned)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

What You’ll Need (Gear)

• Large pot – for boiling the pasta
• Large skillet – to brown the ground beef and mix ingredients
• 9×13 inch baking dish – perfect for assembling and baking the pasta bake
• Colander – to drain pasta and rinse beans
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy in seasoning and cheese
• Mixing spoon or spatula – to stir everything together
• Oven mitts – for safe handling of the hot baking dish

The Method for Cheesy Taco Beef Pasta Bake

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 3: Add Taco Seasoning and Veggies

Sprinkle 1 packet of taco seasoning over the browned beef. Add 1 cup of corn kernels and 1 can (15 oz) of rinsed and drained black beans. Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 4: Mix in Tomatoes and Sour Cream

Reduce heat to low and stir in 1 cup of diced tomatoes with green chilies and 1 cup of sour cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture warm through for a couple of minutes.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Beef Mixture

Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and gently fold everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the beef and sauce mixture.

Step 6: Assemble the Pasta Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta and beef mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, followed by 1 cup of shredded pepper jack cheese.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden around the edges.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of chopped green onions on top for a fresh pop of flavor and color. Serve warm and enjoy!

Substitutions by Diet

• Vegetarian: Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils for a meatless option.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne pasta to keep this dish gluten-friendly.
• Dairy-Free: Replace cheddar and pepper jack cheeses with dairy-free shredded cheese alternatives and use a dairy-free sour cream substitute.
• Low Sodium: Choose low-sodium canned beans and tomatoes, and reduce or omit added salt.

Little Things that Matter

• Be sure not to overcook the pasta in step 1; al dente pasta holds up better during baking and prevents mushiness.
• Rinsing the black beans helps remove excess sodium and any canning liquids that might affect flavor.
• Using both cheddar and pepper jack cheeses balances sharpness with a mild spicy kick.
• Chop green onions just before serving to keep them fresh and crisp.
• If you like, serve this with a side of crunchy tortilla chips or a fresh green salad to round out the meal.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

Allow the Cheesy Taco Beef Pasta Bake to cool to room temperature before storing. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and microwave in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.

Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through and bubbly. Adding a splash of water or broth before reheating can help maintain moisture.

FAQ

Can I prepare this Cheesy Taco Beef Pasta Bake ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the pasta bake up to a day in advance, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. Bake it when ready, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Is it possible to make this recipe spicier?

Absolutely. Add extra diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. You can also use a spicier taco seasoning blend or add cayenne pepper for a heat boost.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

If you’d prefer to skip sour cream, Greek yogurt is a great substitute that adds creaminess with a bit of tang. For a dairy-free option, try a plant-based sour cream alternative.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

You can freeze this pasta bake, but cheese tends to change texture after freezing and thawing. If you freeze it, wrap it tightly and consume within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Keep Cooking

• Love baked pasta dishes? Try the Baked Three Cheese Chicken Penne for a creamy, cheesy delight.
• For a spicy twist on comfort food, check out this Cheesy Baked Buffalo Chicken Pasta that’s sure to satisfy.
• Looking for a vegetarian option? The Baked Cheesy Ravioli With Marinara is a cheesy, saucy crowd-pleaser.

Bring It Home

This Cheesy Taco Beef Pasta Bake is a delicious way to bring bold flavors and cheesy comfort into your kitchen with minimal fuss. With its hearty ingredients and satisfying textures, it’s a meal that will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just looking for a tasty weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers on flavor and ease. So grab your ingredients, fire up your oven, and get ready to enjoy a pasta bake that’s bursting with southwest flair and cheesy goodness. Happy cooking!

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