Cheesy Queso Taco Pasta Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Queso Taco Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining the richness of creamy cheese dip with the savory taste of seasoned beef and bell peppers. The taco seasoning adds a familiar, bold flavor, while the bell peppers and onions provide a nice crunch and freshness. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s quick to prepare and even quicker to disappear from the dinner table. Whether you're feeding your family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress with its simple ingredients and indulgent taste.

Ingredients

• 16 ounces penne pasta

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 pound ground beef

• ½ yellow onion, diced

• 2 bell peppers, diced

• 1 packet taco seasoning

• 16 ounces Gordo’s cheese dip

• 10 ounces diced tomatoes with green chilies

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the Veggies: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the diced onions and bell peppers, cooking for 3–4 minutes until softened.

3. Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat.

4. Add Seasoning: Sprinkle in the taco seasoning. Stir and cook for an additional minute, ensuring everything is well coated with the seasoning.

5. Mix it All Together: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Pour in the cheese dip and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated in the cheesy taco sauce.

6. Serve: Spoon the hot, cheesy taco pasta into bowls or onto plates and enjoy right away!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 5

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add Extra Veggies: Try adding zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrients and flavor.

• Spicy Kick: For a spicier version, add a chopped jalapeño or use a spicy cheese dip.

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative.

• Creamier Sauce: Stir in a little sour cream or heavy cream for a creamier texture.

• Cheese Lovers: Top with shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese for extra cheesiness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Cheesy Queso Taco Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a little milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring between each.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! You can substitute penne with any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini, fusilli, or even macaroni.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace the ground beef with plant-based meat or add extra beans and vegetables for a vegetarian version.

3. Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

To add heat, you can include chopped jalapeños, spicy cheese dip, or a few dashes of hot sauce.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. The flavors will meld together nicely overnight.

5. Can I freeze Cheesy Queso Taco Pasta?

Yes, you can freeze the pasta once it has cooled completely. Store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

6. Can I use a different type of cheese dip?

If Gordo’s cheese dip isn’t available, you can use any creamy queso dip or Velveeta cheese to make a similar cheesy sauce.

7. Can I add more protein to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken, sausage, or even beans to the dish to increase the protein content.

8. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can make it dairy-free by using a dairy-free cheese dip and a non-dairy substitute for the cheese dip, like cashew cream or a plant-based cheese sauce.

9. What can I serve this with?

This pasta pairs well with a simple side salad, tortilla chips, or even a dollop of sour cream on top for extra creaminess.

10. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of diced tomatoes with green chilies?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you’ll miss out on the slight spice and flavor the green chilies provide. You may want to add some chili flakes for a similar effect.

Conclusion

Cheesy Queso Taco Pasta is a perfect fusion of cheesy comfort food and the zesty flavors of tacos. It’s simple to prepare, customizable to your preferences, and guaranteed to be a hit at the dinner table. Whether you're in the mood for a quick meal or something indulgent, this dish delivers on all fronts. Try it out, and watch it become a family favorite!

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Cheesy Queso Taco Pasta is a delicious, creamy, and comforting dish that combines taco seasoning, ground beef, and melted cheese with penne pasta. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 5 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

16 ounces penne pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 pound ground beef

½ yellow onion, diced

2 bell peppers, diced

1 packet taco seasoning

16 ounces Gordo’s cheese dip

10 ounces diced tomatoes with green chilies

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the diced onions and bell peppers, cooking for 3–4 minutes until softened.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat.
4. Sprinkle in the taco seasoning. Stir and cook for an additional minute, ensuring everything is well coated with the seasoning.
5. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Pour in the cheese dip and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated in the cheesy taco sauce.
6. Spoon the hot, cheesy taco pasta into bowls or onto plates and enjoy right away!

Notes

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a little milk or cream, or microwave in short bursts.
• You can swap ground beef for turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a leaner or vegetarian option.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 29g
• Cholesterol: 60mg