Mouthwatering Taco Pasta Casserole

Name: Mouthwatering Taco Pasta Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 8 ounces pasta (elbow or rotini); 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes; 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained; 1 packet taco seasoning; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and Monterey Jack); 1 cup salsa; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fast & Simple Meals

I absolutely love making this Mouthwatering Taco Pasta Casserole for my family. It’s a dish that brings together all of our favorite flavors in a cheesy, comforting way. With the richness of the seasoned beef and the zesty tomatoes, every bite is packed with deliciousness. Plus, it's incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. I often add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro right before serving to brighten up the flavors, and it’s a hit every time. This casserole is certainly a recipe we return to often, and I think you'll love it just as much as we do!

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:58:28.958Z

This recipe has become my go-to for gatherings and family dinners. I first stumbled upon it when I was in search of a quick weeknight meal that wouldn't compromise on flavor or satisfaction. It combines everything we love about tacos—seasoned meat, cheese, and pasta—into one hearty dish!

One great tip I discovered is to use a blend of cheeses, which adds more depth to the flavor profile; my favorite mix includes cheddar and Monterey Jack. Additionally, baking it until bubbly gives that perfect golden crust on top that everyone loves. I can't wait for you to try it!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich flavors of taco seasoning in a comforting pasta dish
Cheesy, melty goodness that everyone will adore
Perfectly suitable for meal prep or serving a crowd

The Heart of the Casserole: Flavorful Ingredients

The star of this Mouthwatering Taco Pasta Casserole is undoubtedly the seasoned ground beef. When browning the beef, aim for it to achieve a nice, golden color to enhance the flavor profile. It creates a savory foundation that, once combined with the zesty canned tomatoes and taco seasoning, delivers that quintessential taco taste. Feel free to use lean ground beef or even ground turkey as a lighter alternative, which also absorbs the spices beautifully while keeping the richness in check.

The addition of black beans not only boosts the protein content but also adds a creamy texture that complements the pasta. If you're looking for a way to make this dish vegetarian, swapping the ground beef for lentils or another bean variety works wonderfully, as it still captures the dish's essence while accommodating different dietary preferences. Just remember to adjust your seasoning accordingly to maintain that taco flair!

Baking Techniques: Perfecting Texture and Flavor

To achieve that irresistibly melty cheese topping, layering half of the cheese in the mixture and then topping with the remainder before baking is essential. This method not only ensures that every bite of pasta is gooey and cheesy but also provides a delightful, bubbly crust on top. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and just starting to turn golden. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning, which can lead to an overly hard crust.

If you prefer a bit of crunch, consider broiling the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes. Just be vigilant, as the cheese can brown quickly under the broiler! A successful casserole should also have edges that are just beginning to crisp, providing a delightful contrast to the soft pasta inside. The balance of textures is what transforms this casserole from a regular weeknight meal into a memorable family favorite.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
8 ounces pasta (elbow or rotini)
1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained
1 packet taco seasoning
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and Monterey Jack)
1 cup salsa
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences!

Instructions

Steps to Prepare

Cook the Pasta

Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the canned tomatoes, black beans, taco seasoning, and salsa into the beef mixture. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

Mix with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta and half of the shredded cheese into the skillet, stirring well to combine everything together.

Bake the Casserole

Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining shredded cheese and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

This casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Pro Tips

For added spice, consider tossing in some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when cooking the beef. You can also swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Storage Tips and Make-Ahead Options

This Taco Pasta Casserole is perfect for meal prep! Make it ahead and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage. To freeze, ensure it’s completely cooled, then cover tightly with foil or use a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 25-30 minutes. If frozen, allow for an hour of reheating time.

For best results, if you plan on making the casserole in advance, I recommend undercooking the pasta slightly during the initial boiling phase. This allows the pasta to absorb the flavors of the sauce without becoming mushy during the reheating process. Keeping the pasta firm ensures it retains its texture even after a day in the fridge or freezer.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This casserole is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand. For a spicy kick, add chopped jalapeños or swap out the regular salsa for a spicy variant. You could also incorporate vegetables like bell peppers or corn, which can add freshness and sweetness to the dish. Sauté them along with the onion and garlic to build flavor before mixing in the meat.

When it comes to serving, consider topping individual portions with sour cream, guacamole, or sliced avocado for added creaminess. Fresh cilantro not only brightens the plate but also enhances the overall flavor just before serving. Pair it with a simple side salad or tortilla chips for a meal that’s sure to impress while staying easy to prepare!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Any short pasta, like penne or fusilli, will work great in this casserole.

→ Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat or an extra can of beans.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ Can I add other ingredients?

Definitely! Feel free to add corn, bell peppers, or any other vegetables you enjoy.