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The BEST Taco Pasta Bake Recipe – Cheesy, Zesty, and Irresistible!

This Taco Pasta Bake is a mouthwatering fusion of Tex-Mex flavors and cheesy pasta goodness! Perfect for weeknight dinners or a crowd-pleasing dish, it's easy, hearty, and utterly delicious.
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Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Baking dish (9x13-inch)
  • Mixing spoon

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz pasta penne, rotini, or shells work best
  • 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 packet taco seasoning or homemade blend
  • 1 cup salsa mild, medium, or hot based on your preference
  • 1 cup canned diced tomatoes drained
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • ½ cup black beans optional
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1½ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro optional, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Preheat the Oven
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Step 2: Cook the Pasta
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Step 3: Prepare the Taco Beef
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned.
  • Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
  • Stir in the taco seasoning, salsa, diced tomatoes, corn, and black beans (if using). Let simmer for 5 minutes.
  • Step 4: Combine Ingredients
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sour cream, and half of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
  • Fold in the taco beef mixture until evenly combined.
  • Step 5: Assemble the Bake
  • Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  • Sprinkle the remaining cheeses evenly over the top.
  • Step 6: Bake
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Step 7: Garnish and Serve
  • Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve warm.