Best Taco Pasta Recipe

Ingredients

1/2 pound large shells pasta

1 tablespoon canola oil

1 pound ground beef

1 yellow onion (diced)

4 cloves garlic (minced)

2 tablespoons taco seasoning

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

3/4 cup water

1 cup jarred salsa

1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)

Salt to taste

Pepper to taste

Garnish:

Cheese

Crushed tortilla chips

Sour cream

Chopped parsley

Instructions

Cook the pasta according box directions, drain and set aside.

In the meantime, place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add oil. Once it starts sizzling add the ground beef and brown well, breaking it with a spoon until no longer pink.

Drain the fat.

Add the onion and garlic, stir and cook for 1 minute.

Add the taco seasoning, dried oregano, Worcestershire sauce, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.

Add 3/4 cup of water, stir and cook until water is gone.

Add the pasta to the pan. Add the salsa and cheese. Stir to combine.

Serve immediately, preferably with crunchy tortilla chips, sour cream and more cheese on top.

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Nutrition Information:

YIELD: 6 SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of meat?

Certainly! Ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat substitute can all be used as alternatives to ground beef.

Just ensure it’s cooked thoroughly before proceeding with the other steps.

What if I don’t have salsa?

If you don’t have salsa, you can substitute it with a can of diced tomatoes and some chili powder for a similar flavor profile.

Alternatively, you could use a mixture of fresh tomatoes, onion, jalapenos, and cilantro for a fresh salsa variation.

Can I make this dish spicier?

If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add more red pepper flakes or add some diced jalapenos or hot sauce.

Remember to adjust the seasoning to your preference.

What type of salsa should I use?

The type of salsa used will significantly affect the flavor of the dish.

You can use any salsa that you enjoy, but a chunky salsa will add more texture to the pasta.

If you prefer it spicy, consider using a hot salsa.

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While the recipe suggests large shells, you can experiment with other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti.

Is there a substitute for ground beef if I want a different protein?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives like crumbled tofu or tempeh for a lighter version.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more red pepper flakes or incorporating diced jalapeños to suit your taste preferences.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

To reheat, you can use the microwave for a quick option or reheat on the stovetop with a bit of additional water to prevent the pasta from drying out.

Can I customize the toppings based on personal preferences?

Absolutely! Customize your Taco Pasta with your favorite toppings like sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, green onions, or cilantro.

The suggested garnishes like crushed tortilla chips, sour cream, and extra cheese are just a starting point.