Cheesy Taco Pasta is the perfect mix of taco night and pasta comfort. With seasoned ground chicken, tender pasta, and lots of melted cheese, it’s a quick and tasty meal the whole family will love—great for weeknights or casual get-togethers.
Why We Love This Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe
Cheesy Taco Pasta is a delightful dish that appeals to many different tastes, making it a great choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends. First off, the combination of pasta and taco-inspired flavors creates an irresistible blend of textures and tastes. The creamy cheese melds beautifully with the zesty taco seasoning, leaving a comforting layer of satisfaction with every bite.
Additionally, this dish is a breeze to whip up, requiring minimal prep time and cooking steps. Most of the ingredients are likely already in your kitchen, so it’s a fantastic go-to when you’re low on time or ingredients. The one-pot preparation means less hassle and fewer dishes to wash afterward.
Moreover, Cheesy Taco Pasta is perfect for feeding a crowd. You can easily scale the recipe up or down, depending on your needs. Whether you’re serving a family of four or a larger gathering, this dish has you covered.
So, if you’re ready to delight your taste buds and impress your loved ones, let’s get into the specifics of making Cheesy Taco Pasta.
Ingredients about Cheesy Taco Pasta
To prepare your Cheesy Taco Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 6 cloves garlic, chopped
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 10 ounces pasta (any shape you prefer)
- 1 cup enchilada sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- Fresh cilantro and/or green onions for garnish
With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to create a delicious hearty meal that is bursting with flavor!
How to Make Cheesy Taco Pasta Directions
Making Cheesy Taco Pasta is straightforward and fun. Start by heating the olive oil in a shallow Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground chicken, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until fully browned.
Next, toss in the chopped yellow onion, red bell pepper, and garlic. These aromatic veggies not only add flavor but also enhance the texture of the dish. Stir in the taco seasoning, ensuring that the spices are well incorporated, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Now, it’s time to turn up the flavor! Pour in the chicken broth, add the pasta, and squeeze in the enchilada sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for approximately 15 minutes. This will allow the pasta to absorb all those delicious flavors and cook to perfection.
When the pasta is cooked and tender, it’s time to mix in the joy of cheese! Stir in 2 cups of the combined shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese until they melt into the pasta. This is where the magic happens, as the cheese creates a creamy and rich texture.
Once everything is well combined, turn off the heat and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the pasta. Allow it to melt slightly before serving. Finally, garnish your Cheesy Taco Pasta with freshly chopped cilantro and/or green onions for an added burst of color and flavor.
How to Serve Cheesy Taco Pasta
Served hot and fresh, Cheesy Taco Pasta can stand alone as a delicious meal. However, if you want to elevate your serving experience, consider pairing it with warm tortillas or tortilla chips. These crunchy additions offer a delightful contrast in texture that complements the creamy pasta beautifully.
When it’s time to serve, dish out generous portions into bowls or plates. The vibrant colors of the peppers and herbs make it visually appealing, so don’t skip on the garnishing. Add a sprinkle of cilantro or green onions, allowing your guests to see the effort you’ve put into presentation.
You can also provide toppings like extra shredded cheese, jalapeños for spice, or sour cream for creaminess, allowing everyone to customize their bowls. Your dinner gathering will quickly turn into a flavorful feast, with everyone digging into this mouthwatering dish.
Expert Tips: Cheesy Taco Pasta
To make your Cheesy Taco Pasta even more amazing, here are some tips that will ensure perfect results each time.
- Select Your Pasta Wisely: While you can choose any pasta shape, using a shape with ridges—like penne or fusilli—will help capture more sauce and cheese, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you like heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when stirring in the taco seasoning. Conversely, for a milder dish, you can reduce the seasoning or omit the spicy ingredients.
- Experiment with Cheese: Although mozzarella and cheddar are classic choices, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Pepper jack adds a nice kick, while a smoked cheddar could bring in a subtle smokiness.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporating more veggies is always a great idea. Consider adding black beans, corn, or zucchini for an extra nutritional boost and flavorful depth.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since you’ll be letting the pasta sit in the pot for a bit after cooking, be sure to keep an eye on it. Cook it just until al dente, so it doesn’t become mushy.
How to Store Cheesy Taco Pasta
Storing leftovers of your Cheesy Taco Pasta is simple. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days.
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat portions in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if the pasta seems dry. For best results, avoid reheating multiple times, as the texture may change.
Variation of Cheesy Taco Pasta
While the classic Cheesy Taco Pasta is irresistible, don’t hesitate to switch things up! Here are a few fun variations to try:
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground chicken with black beans or lentils for a plant-based option. Increase the amount of veggies you add for a hearty, meat-free meal.
- Make It Spicy: If you’re a fan of heat, incorporate spicy salsa or Chipotle seasoning for a smokier flavor. You could also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes into the mix.
- Creamy Variation: For a creamier dish, add a block of cream cheese into the pasta after it’s cooked. It will melt and give you a cheesy delightful texture.
- Taco Shell Stuffing: Use the Cheesy Taco Pasta as a stuffing for taco shells or burrito wraps. This makes for an even more fun meal that’s perfect for family and friends.
- Add Meat Options: In addition to ground chicken, you could mix in cooked ground turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken to vary the meat component.
FAQ Section
What is Cheesy Taco Pasta?
Cheesy Taco Pasta is a flavorful dish that combines pasta with seasoned ground chicken, cheese, and enchilada sauce, creating a creamy and satisfying meal reminiscent of tacos.
How can I customize my Cheesy Taco Pasta?
You can customize your Cheesy Taco Pasta by varying the type of meat, adding more vegetables, or switching up the cheeses. Toppings like salsa or sour cream can also enhance the flavors.
How long will Cheesy Taco Pasta last in the fridge?
This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Can I make Cheesy Taco Pasta ahead of time?
Absolutely! Preparing it ahead of time is a great idea, and you can simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
Do I need to cook the pasta separately?
No, in this recipe, you cook the pasta directly in the same pot with the other ingredients, making it a convenient one-pot meal.
Cheesy Taco Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
- 6 cloves garlic, chopped
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 10 ounces pasta (any shape you prefer)
- 1 cup enchilada sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- to taste Fresh cilantro and/or green onions for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat the olive oil in a shallow Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground chicken, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until fully browned.
- Add the chopped yellow onion, red bell pepper, and garlic, stirring in the taco seasoning. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until vegetables are softened.
Cooking
- Pour in the chicken broth, add the pasta, and squeeze in the enchilada sauce.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for approximately 15 minutes.
- Stir in 2 cups of the combined shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese until melted.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and allow it to melt slightly before serving.
Serving
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and/or green onions before serving.
- Serve hot with warm tortillas or tortilla chips if desired.