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+ servings

California Taco Pasta Skillet

A quick, one-pan taco pasta loaded with beef, bell peppers, and melted cheddar. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Dinner, Main Course, Pasta, Quick Meals
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef preferably 85/15
  • 1/2 cup yellow onion diced
  • 1/2 tablespoon minced garlic about 2 cloves
  • 2 cups red bell pepper chopped
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning store-bought or homemade
  • 3 cups medium shell pasta or other small shapes
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 2 cups beef broth low-sodium preferred
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese mild or sharp

Method
 

  1. Spray a large skillet or pot with olive oil spray and heat over medium-high for 3 minutes.
  2. Add the ground beef, diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell peppers. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and no longer pink.
  3. Stir in the dry pasta, taco seasoning, tomato paste, beef broth, and water. Mix well, cover, and bring to a boil, about 5 minutes.
  4. Uncover, reduce heat to medium, and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring every few minutes, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
  5. Remove the pan from the heat, add the shredded cheddar, and stir until melted and fully combined. Serve hot.

Nutrition

Calories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 32gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 980mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6g

Notes

For a spicier kick, use hot taco seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To make ahead, cook the pasta separately and add it when reheating to avoid mushiness. Avoid overcooking the pasta; it will continue to soften slightly after the heat is off. For extra California flair, top with sliced avocado or a dollop of sour cream.

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