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One-Pan Cheesy Taco Pasta served in a bowl with toppings

Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet

A delightful combination of ground beef, aromatic spices, and creamy cheese, all in a hearty pasta dish topped with crispy Doritos.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Mexican
Servings 6 servings
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef Rich and savory, providing the protein base for our dish.
  • 1 yellow onion yellow onion Aromatic and sweet when sautéed, adding depth to the overall flavor.
  • 2 pkts taco seasoning A spicy blend that transforms ordinary ingredients into a fiesta of flavors.
  • 2 cups water Essential for cooking the pasta and melding all the flavors together.
  • 14.5 oz can fire roasted diced tomatoes Juicy and slightly smoky, these enhance the dish with a tangy note.
  • 10.75 oz can cheddar cheese soup Creamy and cheesy, this ingredient thickens the sauce and adds richness.
  • 8 oz Quick Cook Rotini pasta Spiraled and tender, it captures all the cheesiness and flavors perfectly.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar Melts beautifully on top, creating a gooey, comforting layer.
  • 1 cup crushed Doritos Crispy and flavorful, they add a delightful crunch and extra zest to the dish.

Instructions
 

Preparing the base

  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced yellow onion. Sauté for about 6-8 minutes, or until the ground beef is no longer pink and the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
  • Once the beef is browned, sprinkle in the taco seasoning and stir thoroughly.

Cooking the pasta

  • Pour in the water along with the fire roasted diced tomatoes, including their juices. Add the cheddar cheese soup and the Quick Cook Rotini pasta. Stir everything together until well-combined.
  • Cover the skillet and let it cook over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring every few minutes.

Finishing touches

  • Once the pasta is cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top and cover the skillet again for just 1 minute.
  • Serve hot, garnished with the crispy crushed Doritos.

Notes

For a spicier kick, add minced jalapeños or hot sauce. Swap beef for ground turkey for a healthier option. Add black beans or corn for more flavor and fiber. Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack. Store leftovers for up to 3 days or freeze for 2 months.
Keyword Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Pasta, Skillet Meal, Taco