Go Back
Easy One-Skillet Beef Taco Pasta photo

One-Skillet Beef Taco Pasta

This One-Skillet Beef Taco Pasta is a flavor-packed, easy-to-make meal that your family will love!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound lean or extra-lean ground beef
  • 1 ounce taco seasoning (medium heat recommended)
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 ½ cups uncooked pasta (rotini, bowtie, small shells, or elbow macaroni work great)
  • 15 ounces canned fire-roasted diced tomatoes (do not drain; use regular diced tomatoes for less spice)
  • 15 ounces canned red kidney beans (drained and rinsed; black beans may be substituted)
  • 1 cup frozen corn (canned corn can be used instead)
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
  • 1 cup sour cream (light version can be used)
  • ½ cup green onions (sliced into thin rounds for garnishing; cilantro is a great substitute)
  • 1 Hass avocado peeled and cubed (for garnishing, optional)

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cup for garnishing

Method
 

  1. Start by heating your skillet over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with your wooden spoon as it cooks.
  2. Once the beef is cooked, sprinkle the taco seasoning over the meat. Stir to combine, ensuring every bit of beef is coated in that flavorful spice mix.
  3. Pour in the 2 cups of water and the canned fire-roasted diced tomatoes (don’t drain them). Stir to combine everything well.
  4. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add the uncooked pasta. Stir it in and reduce the heat to a simmer.
  5. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  6. Add the drained and rinsed kidney beans and frozen corn to the skillet. Mix them in thoroughly and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
  7. Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the shredded Mexican cheese blend and sour cream until they are melted and creamy, creating a luscious sauce.
  8. Top your One-Skillet Beef Taco Pasta with sliced green onions and avocado, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • For a creamier texture, consider substituting half of the water with chicken or vegetable broth.
  • Feel free to customize the spice level by using mild or hot taco seasoning.
  • Leftovers can be easily reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen it up.