Ground Beef Taco Pasta Skillet

Name: Ground Beef Taco Pasta Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow pasta; 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Fast & Flavorful Studio

I love making Ground Beef Taco Pasta Skillet when I need a quick and satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy. This dish combines the bold flavors of classic tacos with the comfort of pasta, creating an easy one-pot dinner that's both filling and delicious. In just about 30 minutes, I can whip up this vibrant dish, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, the single skillet cleanup is a major bonus that I appreciate after a long day!

Created by

Rowena Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-28T06:57:35.103Z

When I first decided to create this Ground Beef Taco Pasta Skillet, I wanted to make something quick yet packed with flavor. Using just one skillet means less time cleaning up, leaving more time to enjoy dinner together. The combination of creamy cheese and savory spices truly brings this dish to life!

I found that adding just a touch of chili powder and smoked paprika elevates the flavor profile, making it reminiscent of my favorite taco night. The best part? You can easily customize it with your favorite toppings, like fresh cilantro or diced avocado!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A hearty and satisfying meal in one skillet
Bold, zesty flavors reminiscent of your favorite tacos
Easily customizable with your favorite toppings

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of ground beef, taco seasoning, and diced tomatoes creates a flavorful base for this dish. The taco seasoning not only adds the signature zest but also deepens the umami flavor, making each bite a taste of Tex-Mex goodness. When selecting your ground beef, choose 80/20 for the best balance of flavor and texture. This fat content keeps the meat juicy and prevents the dish from being overly dry.

Diced tomatoes with green chilies lend moisture and a slight kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile. If you prefer a milder dish, opt for plain diced tomatoes and serve with a side of hot salsa instead. For added texture, consider adding some black beans or corn, which not only provide an extra layer of flavor but also make the dish more filling.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Pasta and Beef

Cooking the pasta to al dente is crucial; this means it should have a slight bite to it. Follow the package instructions closely, but start checking a minute or two before the suggested cooking time. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy once mixed with the other ingredients.

When browning the beef, use medium heat to avoid burning. You want it to develop a nice brown color, which builds flavor. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and check for any excess fat. If there's too much, a quick drain can help maintain the dish's integrity and prevent greasiness.

Ingredients

For the Ground Beef Taco Pasta Skillet, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

8 oz elbow pasta
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
2 cups beef broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped cilantro for garnish

With all your ingredients ready, let's move on to the next step!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Ground Beef Taco Pasta Skillet:

Cook the Pasta

In a large skillet, bring salted water to a boil and cook the elbow pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Brown the Beef

In the same skillet, add the ground beef and cook over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Vegetables and Seasoning

To the beef, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent. Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, and beef broth.

Combine and Cook

Add the cooked pasta back into the skillet and stir well. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes until everything is heated through.

Finish with Cheese

Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving for a fresh touch. Enjoy your hearty skillet dish!

Now you're ready to dig in!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños or extra chili powder. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef Taco Pasta Skillet can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you're planning to make it ahead, consider slightly undercooking the pasta, which can help maintain its texture upon reheating. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to bring it back to life.

If you're looking to freeze the dish, ensure it cools completely before packaging it in a freezer-safe container. This can be stored for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This dish is exceptionally versatile; you can serve it with a variety of toppings to suit your taste. Some favorites include diced avocado, sour cream, or a sprinkle of lime juice for an extra zing. Fresh jalapeños can add heat, while tortilla chips provide a satisfying crunch. Consider offering a side of sautéed bell peppers for added color and nutritional value.

For a vegetarian variation, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. You may need to adjust the seasoning slightly, as the flavor spectrum may differ depending on the substitutes. Adding more beans or sautéed vegetables can also create a hearty version that everyone will enjoy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute with any pasta you prefer, like penne or rotini!

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative like Beyond Beef.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat when ready to serve, though the pasta might absorb more liquid.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

Try sour cream, diced tomatoes, avocado, or extra cheese for topping!