Ground Beef Taco Pasta Skillet

Name: Ground Beef Taco Pasta Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 8 ounces elbow macaroni; 1 packet taco seasoning; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup shredded cheese; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1/4 cup onion, chopped; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Hearty Favorites

I love making this Ground Beef Taco Pasta Skillet for a quick and satisfying dinner. The combination of flavorful ground beef, zesty taco seasoning, and hearty pasta creates a dish that is both comforting and filling. It’s a one-pan wonder that saves time on cleanup and is sure to please the entire family. Plus, the leftovers make for excellent lunches. Each bite bursts with deliciousness, making it a favorite in our house for busy weeknights.

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2026-02-27T16:45:35.797Z

When I first created this Ground Beef Taco Pasta Skillet, I wanted something quick yet packed with flavor. I experimented with different pastas and beef ratios until I found the perfect balance. The key is to cook the pasta directly in the seasoned beef mixture, allowing it to absorb all those savory flavors. This approach not only saves time but also enhances the taste of the dish dramatically.

One time, my friends came over for dinner, and I served this skillet dish. They absolutely loved it and even asked for seconds! I served it with a dollop of sour cream and fresh cilantro, which added a refreshing twist. Trust me, these little details make all the difference!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Flavorful and savory ground beef with a perfect kick from taco seasoning
One-pan meal means easy cleanup – less time in the kitchen!
Hearty pasta that absorbs the delicious flavors for a satisfying bite

Elevate Your Taco Pasta Experience

To elevate the flavor profile of your Ground Beef Taco Pasta Skillet, consider adding fresh ingredients like chopped cilantro or sliced jalapeños just before serving. These add a burst of freshness and a bit of heat, balancing the savory richness of the beef and cheese. You can also add a squeeze of lime juice to brighten the dish, enhancing all the existing flavors wonderfully.

If you like a bit of crunch, try topping your pasta with crushed tortilla chips or a dollop of sour cream. This not only adds texture but also a cool creaminess that complements the spicy taco seasoning. Experimenting with toppings can make each serving feel unique while keeping the core recipe intact.

Substitution and Customization Tips

This recipe offers flexibility with its ingredients, which is perfect if you're looking to adjust based on dietary preferences. For a healthier option, lean ground turkey or plant-based ground meat can easily be substituted for the ground beef, allowing you to maintain the same texture and flavor. Just be mindful to adjust seasoning levels as plant-based meats can sometimes be less savory.

If you want to make this dish vegetarian, omit the meat entirely and increase the amount of diced tomatoes and add black or pinto beans for protein. The richness of beef broth can be replaced with vegetable broth without sacrificing flavor, allowing vegetarians to enjoy this hearty meal as well.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover Ground Beef Taco Pasta Skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the pasta from becoming too mushy, it's best to store the pasta and sauce separately if possible. When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture, stirring frequently until heated through.

If you want to freeze your taco pasta, it’s ideal to do so before adding the cheese. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove, adding the cheese just before serving for that creamy finish.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
8 ounces elbow macaroni
1 packet taco seasoning
2 cups beef broth
1 cup shredded cheese
1 can diced tomatoes
1/4 cup onion, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

Steps

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Add ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Ingredients

Stir in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.

Add Pasta

Add the elbow macaroni to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until pasta is cooked al dente.

Finish and Serve

Remove from heat, stir in shredded cheese until melted, and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious, one-pan meal!

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add jalapeños or top with avocado before serving. You can also personalize this dish by adding your favorite toppings like salsa or sour cream.

Perfecting the Pasta

Choosing the right pasta is crucial for the overall texture of your dish. Elbow macaroni works beautifully as it captures the sauce and flavors well, but you could also use shells or penne if you prefer. Just keep an eye on the cooking time and adjust accordingly, as different shapes may require slight variations in cooking duration to achieve that perfect al dente bite.

It's important to stir the pasta occasionally while it's cooking in the skillet to prevent sticking. If you notice it clumping together, a little extra broth or water can help keep it loose, ensuring each bite stays flavorful and well-coated.

Enhancing Flavor with Seasoning

The taco seasoning is key to giving your Ground Beef Taco Pasta its signature flavor. Consider making your own seasoning blend with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika to tailor the spices to your taste. This not only allows you to control the heat level but also ensure freshness and quality in your dish.

If you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce when mixing in the seasoning. This is an easy way to enhance the dish’s flavor without altering the base recipe too much.

Serving Suggestions

This dish can stand beautifully on its own, but you can enhance the dining experience by serving it alongside a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables. A side of guacamole or homemade salsa on the table can also elevate the meal, offering refreshing flavors to complement the richness of the pasta.

For a family-friendly touch, let everyone customize their plate with toppings like shredded lettuce, diced onions, or extra cheese. This makes dinner not just a meal, but an interactive experience where everyone can add their favorite flavors!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken work well as substitutes for ground beef.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! You can replace the beef with sautéed mushrooms or lentils for a hearty vegetarian option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, this dish freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.