This Taco Pasta Bake is the perfect fusion of tacos and pasta, loaded with seasoned beef, juicy tomatoes, and gooey melted cheese! The bold flavors of a classic taco meet comforting baked pasta for a dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds! 
Ingredients
- 12 oz cavatappi pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (or 2 tbsp) taco seasoning
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt & black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Brown the beef: In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Add onion & garlic, cooking for another 2 minutes.
Season & mix: Stir in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Make it creamy: Remove from heat and mix in sour cream.
Assemble the bake: Combine the taco beef mixture with the cooked pasta and half of the cheese. Pour into a greased baking dish.
Top it off: Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
Serve & enjoy! Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro, jalapeños, or crushed tortilla chips!
Pro Tips
Want extra crunch? Add a layer of crushed nacho chips before baking! Make it a one-pot meal by using an oven-safe skillet instead of a baking dish. Spice it up! Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bold taco flavors – Everything you love in a taco, baked into pasta! Super cheesy – A gooey, melty cheese topping makes it irresistible! Quick & easy – On the table in under an hour! Family-friendly – Perfect for taco AND pasta lovers!
This Taco Pasta Bake is the ultimate weeknight dinner, packed with spice, creaminess, and cheesy goodness! 
Try it and let me know how you love it! 
