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Taco Pasta Bake: 5 Reasons You’ll Love This Cheesy Dish

Taco Pasta Bake

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This Loaded Taco Pasta Bake combines tender pasta, seasoned beef, melty cheese, and Tex-Mex favorites into one comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights or potluck dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion (diced)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
  • 15 oz black beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 14.5 oz diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
  • salt and pepper (to taste)
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
  • 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot)
  • fresh cilantro or green onions (chopped, for garnish)
  • optional toppings (sour cream, sliced jalapeños, diced avocado)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Add diced onion and cook for 4–5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  3. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef mixture and stir to coat. Add corn, black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and salsa. Stir and simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently until well coated.
  5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer half of the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with half the cheese. Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the rest of the cheese. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until melted and golden.
  6. Let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions. Serve with sour cream, jalapeños, or diced avocado if desired.

Notes

    Nutrition