Skillet Taco Pasta Explosion

Name: Skillet Taco Pasta Explosion
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini works best); 1 lb ground beef or turkey; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (14.5 oz); 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy Meals

I absolutely love this Skillet Taco Pasta Explosion recipe because it combines the comforting warmth of cheesy pasta with the bold flavors of taco seasoning. It's quick to make, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish, which is perfect for those busy weeknights when I want something delicious without the fuss. Plus, it’s one-pot cooking, meaning fewer dishes to wash. I always have the ingredients on hand, making it a go-to meal that satisfies both my cravings and my family's desires for a hearty, fun dinner.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:14:28.234Z

When I first made this Skillet Taco Pasta Explosion, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. With just one skillet, I sautéed the ground beef and combined it with pasta, ensuring that every bite was full of flavor. I’ve tried adding different veggies like bell peppers and corn, which enhanced the dish without complicating the recipe.

The key is using high-quality taco seasoning—homemade or store-bought—that truly elevates the entire dish. I also love to sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for that burst of freshness just before serving, making each bowl look as vibrant as it tastes!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
One-pan wonder that makes cleanup a breeze
Every bite is packed with taco flavor, satisfying all cravings
Customizable with your favorite toppings and ingredients

Cooking Technique Tips

Using a large skillet is crucial for this recipe, as it allows for even cooking and better integration of flavors. I recommend a deep skillet or a sauté pan to prevent the liquid from spilling over while simmering. Ensure you're using medium heat to avoid scorching the base of the skillet, which can lead to a burnt flavor. Stir occasionally, especially as the pasta absorbs the broth, to prevent sticking. Keeping the heat steady will give you the best textured pasta.

When browning the meat, ensure it is cooked until it reaches a nice golden color. This step not only adds depth of flavor but also enhances the overall taste of the dish. If you're using leaner meat like turkey, consider adding a touch more olive oil to maintain moisture. This will keep your pasta creamy rather than dry without the added fat.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of pasta can significantly impact the final dish. I find that shorter, sturdier pastas like penne or rotini hold onto the sauce better, allowing each bite to be flavorful. If you have gluten-free pasta on hand, this recipe adapts beautifully with those alternatives as well—just be sure to adjust cooking times according to the package instructions since gluten-free pasta often cooks faster.

The diced tomatoes with green chilies serve a dual purpose: they add acidity to balance the richness of the cheese and create a subtle heat that enhances the taco flavor. If you prefer a milder dish, substitute plain diced tomatoes and add a pinch of chili powder according to taste.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious taco-inspired dish:

Ingredients

8 oz pasta (penne or rotini works best)
1 lb ground beef or turkey
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (14.5 oz)
2 cups beef broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped cilantro for garnish

Make sure to check your pantry for any additional spices or toppings you'd like to add!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Skillet Taco Pasta Explosion:

Cook the Meat

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey, seasoning with a bit of salt and pepper. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth, and pasta. Allow the mixture to come to a simmer.

Cook the Pasta

Cover and cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Add Cheese

Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and evenly distributed.

Serve warm and garnish with fresh cilantro for added flavor!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite toppings such as sour cream, sliced olives, or avocado to elevate your meal even further.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Skillet Taco Pasta Explosion is a fantastic option for meal prep! You can assemble it ahead of time, just keep the cheese separate until you're ready to serve; this prevents it from becoming clumpy. Simply store the prepped dish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

If you're looking to freeze this dish, consider leaving out the cheese until you reheat it. Freeze in serving-sized portions for easy access; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. To reheat, place in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to bring back moisture.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to customize your Skillet Taco Pasta Explosion with different proteins or veggies! Ground chicken or a plant-based meat substitute works wonderfully if you're looking for something lighter or vegetarian. You could also toss in some bell peppers, black beans, or corn along with the tomatoes for extra texture and flavor.

For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or even a few dashes of hot sauce when mixing in the cheese. Topping with avocado or a dollop of sour cream adds a cooling contrast to the dish’s bold flavors and enhances the overall experience without compromising the core recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any short pasta, like fusilli or bowtie, will work well.

→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Substitute the ground meat with black beans or lentils for a hearty vegetarian option.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it in advance and reheat it on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it moist.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It's great on its own, but consider serving it with a side salad or tortilla chips for crunch.