Introduction

Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is a dish that has become an instant family favorite in our house. The combination of creamy Velveeta cheese, taco seasoning, and tender small shell pasta creates a savory, cheesy, and satisfying meal that everyone loves. It’s a fun twist on classic taco night, turning familiar taco flavors into a hearty, comforting pasta dish. We’ve had this for dinner several times, and each time it’s met with rave reviews from my family. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a quick weeknight meal, Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta delivers on flavor and comfort. This dish combines the richness of cheese with the boldness of tacos, making it a winning choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta

Bold, Flavorful Taste
Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is packed with flavor, from the seasoned ground beef to the creamy, cheesy sauce. The taco seasoning and Rotel add a kick of spice and zest, while the Velveeta and cheddar cheese make the dish irresistibly creamy.
Quick and Easy
This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Kid-Friendly
With cheesy pasta and savory beef, this meal is perfect for kids (and adults!) of all ages. The creamy texture and bold flavors are sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
One-Pot Meal
The beauty of this recipe is that everything is cooked in one pot or pan, making cleanup a breeze. After cooking the beef, you can melt the cheese and combine everything right in the same pan.
Versatile and Customizable
You can easily tweak this dish to suit your tastes. Add more cheese, spice it up with extra taco seasoning, or even throw in some veggies for added flavor and nutrition. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients

3 pounds ground beef
1 box small shells pasta
1 pack of Velveeta cheese (about 16 oz)
Handful of sharp cheddar cheese (about 1 cup, shredded)
2 packs taco seasoning
1 can Rotel (original)
1/2 cup milk

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet or pan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain the excess fat and set the beef aside.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and cook the small shell pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Melt the Velveeta Cheese

While the pasta is cooking, cut the block of Velveeta cheese into small cubes and place them in the same pan you used for the ground beef. Set the pan over medium heat. As the cheese begins to melt, add the milk and stir continuously to combine. Keep stirring until the cheese has fully melted and a smooth, creamy sauce forms.

Step 4: Combine the Beef and Pasta

Add the cooked ground beef back into the pan with the melted Velveeta cheese. Stir to combine. Then, add the cooked pasta shells and mix well so that the pasta is coated in the cheesy beef mixture.

Step 5: Add the Taco Seasoning and Rotel

Sprinkle the two packs of taco seasoning over the mixture and stir it in. Next, add the can of Rotel (with its juices) and mix well. The Rotel adds a nice zing to the dish, and the juice helps loosen the mixture for a creamier texture.

Step 6: Add Cheddar Cheese and Serve

Once the taco seasoning and Rotel are fully incorporated, sprinkle a handful of sharp cheddar cheese over the top. Stir to combine until the cheese melts into the mixture. Once everything is well combined and heated through, it’s ready to serve!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6-8 servings
Calories per serving: Approx. 500-600 kcal (depending on portion size and specific ingredients used)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

As a Main Dish: This dish is hearty enough to be served on its own as a complete meal. The ground beef, cheesy sauce, and pasta make it filling and satisfying.
With a Side Salad: For a lighter meal, pair it with a simple green salad topped with your favorite dressing. The freshness of the salad balances out the richness of the pasta.
Taco Night Twist: Serve Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta as a fun alternative to tacos on taco night. It’s sure to become a family favorite.
With Garlic Bread: Add a side of garlic bread or breadsticks for extra indulgence. The crispy bread pairs perfectly with the creamy, cheesy pasta.
As Leftovers: This dish keeps well for a couple of days in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prepping or enjoying leftovers.

Additional Tips

Use Ground Turkey for a Lighter Version: If you want a leaner version of this dish, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey. It will still be flavorful but with less fat.
Add Extra Veggies: For some added nutrition, toss in some diced bell peppers, onions, or even corn when cooking the beef. It’ll add more texture and flavor.
Adjust the Spice Level: If you like it spicier, use a can of spicy Rotel or add some extra cayenne pepper to the beef mixture.
Double the Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to add more cheddar cheese at the end for an extra creamy and cheesy texture.
Make It Creamier: Add more milk to the Velveeta cheese mixture if you prefer a creamier, looser consistency. You can also use heavy cream for an even richer texture.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute Velveeta with another creamy cheese like cream cheese or even use a combination of shredded cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar. Velveeta gives a smooth and creamy texture, but any cheese will work in a pinch.

2. Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely! While small shells are perfect for holding the cheesy sauce, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, like penne, elbow macaroni, or rotini.

3. Can I freeze Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

4. Can I use homemade taco seasoning instead of packets?
Yes, you can make your own taco seasoning by mixing chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

5. How can I make this dish spicier?
For extra spice, use a can of spicy Rotel or add extra taco seasoning, cayenne pepper, or chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture.

6. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or even lentils for a vegetarian version. Make sure to use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

7. How do I know when the pasta is done?
Follow the instructions on the pasta box, but start checking the pasta a minute or two before the suggested time to ensure it’s cooked al dente. It should be firm to the bite.

8. Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, you can easily add more vegetables like diced zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms. Just sauté them with the onions and bell peppers before adding the ground beef.

9. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Cook it and let it cool, then store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

10. What can I serve with Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta?
Pair this dish with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is a flavorful, comforting, and easy-to-make meal that will quickly become a family favorite. With its creamy Velveeta cheese, seasoned ground beef, and zesty taco flavors, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. It’s filling, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors, making it a satisfying choice for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or pairing it with sides, this Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is sure to please. So, gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try — it’s a guaranteed hit!