20 Minute Taco Pasta

This recipe for 20 Minute Taco Pasta is the perfect mix of two favorite cuisines- Italian and Mexican.

Made with rotini pasta and taco seasoning, this simple dish is a perfect idea for a busy weeknight meal when served with Chili Cheddar Biscuits on the side.

What makes taco pasta so good?

Taco pasta is an easy to make recipe that combines together our favorite Mexican flavors with hearty and comforting pasta.

I like how incredibly customizable this recipe is too!

Have you tried my recipe for 7 Layer Southwestern Dip?

Made with refried beans, guacamole, and shredded cheese, that tasty appetizer is a winner! Both this recipe for taco pasta and that recipe for layered dip are savory, creamy, and slightly spicy recipes that are perfect for your next meal or gathering.

Taco seasoning is used to flavor this pasta recipe. You can find taco seasoning here.

What you need to make to make taco flavored pasta.

• Pasta. Cooked al dente. Good choices include rotini, medium shells, or penne pasta because of their size and shape.
• Taco Seasoning. The seasoning of your choice.
• Cherry Tomatoes. Use firm tomatoes that are sliced in half. Grape tomatoes or a similar sized tomato can be used.
• Green Onions. Chopped.
• Shredded Cheese Such as Cheddar Cheese, Monterey Jack Cheese, or a blend (such as Mexican blend).
• Catalina Dressing. This is a 'secret' ingredients that adds flavor and texture to this dish.
• Optional Protein Ground beef, ground turkey, ground chicken, or a vegan alternative. Cooked through (browned).
• Tortilla Chips Serve with crushed tortilla chips, such as Doritos, sprinkled on top for a bit of crunch and added flavor.

How to Make Easy Taco Pasta.

• Prep Time 20 Minutes .
• Servings 16, depending on how it is served. .
• How to serve : Serve with a salad, rolls, or as desired.
• Notes: You will need a large bowl. If you need to brown your protein, you will need a skillet (or whatever method you choose to use).

1. Combine. In a large mixing bowl, use two large spoons or similar items to toss together the pasta and taco seasoning until combined. Then add the sliced tomatoes and chopped green onions and toss.
2. Protein. If you are adding a cooked protein, make sure that it has fully cooled before adding it to the bowl. Add the shredded cheese along with any protein to the bowl and toss the ingredients until combined.
3. Dressing. Pour a half cup of the dressing over the ingredients in the bowl and toss. Then repeat this step with the remaining dressing.
4. Serve. Cover and refrigerate the pasta for at least 10 minutes for the flavors to meld. Then serve the taco pasta with crushed tortilla chips on top.

Tips for making the best taco pasta.

When you cook the pasta, cook it until it is 'firm to bite' or al dente. This is because the pasta will continue to absorb moisture when combined with the other ingredients and soften as a result. Cooking it al dente can prevent the pasta from turning mushy.

More helpful tips for you.

1. Protein options for this recipe include ground beef, ground turkey, ground chicken, or a vegan alternative. These proteins should be well browned or cooked through before adding them to the other ingredients.
2. Make this recipe even easier by using pre-cooked pasta and precooked meat, such as leftovers or cooked breakfast sausage.
3. Optional add-ins for this recipe include canned beans (drained and rinsed), corn, peppers, or diced avocado.

How to store taco pasta.

Leftover taco pasta should be covered or stored in an airtight container. When properly stored, it should keep for up to four days when refrigerated. Pasta made without the protein (beef etc) may last a bit longer.

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