Cheesy Taco Beef Pasta Bake
This Cheesy Taco Beef Pasta Bake is a zesty, cheesy, and comforting one-dish meal perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large Skillet
- 9x13 inch Baking Dish
- Colander
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Oven mitts
Ingredients
- 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
- to taste olive oil
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
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 9x13 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!
Notes
- Do not overcook the pasta; al dente pasta holds up better during baking and prevents mushiness.
- Rinse black beans to remove excess sodium and canning liquids that might affect flavor.
- Use both cheddar and pepper jack cheeses for a balanced sharp and spicy cheesy topping.
- Chop green onions just before serving to keep them fresh and crisp.
- Serve with crunchy tortilla chips or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.