Cheesy Queso Taco Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Queso Taco Pasta is loaded with all the delicious flavors of a classic taco in a creamy, cheesy pasta form. The combination of ground beef, bell peppers, onions, and taco seasoning gives it that signature taco flavor, while the Gordo’s cheese dip and diced tomatoes with green chilies add a rich and zesty kick. With only 5 simple steps and minimal prep, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a family dinner.

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 penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

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

3. Brown the Beef: Add 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 1 more minute, making sure everything is well coated with flavor.

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 everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy, 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

• Spicy Option: Add some jalapeños or hot sauce to give it an extra kick.

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef for black beans or a plant-based protein.

• Cheese Choices: Use a different cheese dip or melt shredded cheddar cheese for a more traditional cheesy flavor.

• Add Some Crunch: Top with crushed tortilla chips or serve with a side of crispy tacos for extra texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can swap out penne for any pasta you prefer, such as rotini or elbow macaroni.

2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with black beans or plant-based ground meat.

3. How spicy is this dish?

This dish has a mild level of spice, but you can adjust it by adding jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra chili powder for more heat.

4. What if I can’t find Gordo’s cheese dip?

You can substitute it with another queso dip, or even a combination of Velveeta and sour cream to create a similar creamy consistency.

5. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it when ready to serve.

6. How do I keep the pasta from becoming mushy?

Be sure to cook the pasta al dente and avoid overcooking. Also, make sure to drain it well before adding it to the skillet.

7. Can I freeze this dish?

While you can freeze it, pasta dishes with cheese dips can sometimes change texture after freezing. If you choose to freeze, let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container.

8. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken will work well as a lighter alternative to beef.

9. How can I make this dish more filling?

Serve it with a side of rice, or top it with some avocado slices or sour cream for added richness.

10. Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! The creamy, cheesy sauce and taco flavors make this a hit with kids, especially if you tone down the spice.

Conclusion

Cheesy Queso Taco Pasta is a quick, easy, and utterly delicious dish that blends the best of taco flavors and cheesy goodness. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just making a simple dinner, this recipe will surely become a family favorite. With its creamy texture, savory beef, and zesty kick, it’s a perfect go-to for a busy weeknight or taco night!