Craving tacos but want to switch things up? This Easy Taco Penne Recipe blends the bold flavors of tacos with hearty penne pasta for a delicious, satisfying meal that the whole family will love. It’s made in one pot, comes together in under 30 minutes, and is loaded with seasoned ground beef, melty cheddar cheese, and tender pasta. Whether you’re making it for Taco Tuesday or any weeknight, this recipe will quickly become a go-to!
This recipe is perfect for those busy nights when you need something quick but don’t want to sacrifice flavor. Plus, it’s easily customizable—feel free to swap ingredients or add your favorite taco toppings. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Taco Penne Recipe:
- One-pot wonder: Fewer dishes, more time to relax!
- Versatile: Use ground beef, turkey, or even a plant-based alternative.
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will devour this cheesy, taco-inspired pasta.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful, cheesy taco pasta:
- Ground Beef or Turkey (1 lb): Choose either for a rich, savory base. Beef is more traditional, but turkey works great for a lighter option.
- Small Onion, Diced: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Bell Pepper, Diced (optional): This adds color and crunch. Feel free to skip if you prefer.
- Minced Garlic (2 cloves): Essential for that bold, aromatic flavor.
- Taco Seasoning (1 packet or 2 tbsp homemade): The star of the show! Use your favorite store-bought seasoning or make your own.
- Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies (1 can, 10 oz): Adds a little heat and tanginess to the dish. If you're out, you can substitute with beef or chicken broth (as I did in the video!).
- Chicken or Beef Broth (2 cups): Helps cook the pasta and adds depth. Use beef broth for a richer flavor.
- Penne Pasta (8 oz): The pasta soaks up all those delicious taco flavors.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): The finishing touch for a creamy, cheesy texture.
- Fresh Cilantro (optional, for garnish): Adds freshness and a pop of color.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Meat
In a large skillet or pot, cook the ground beef (or turkey) over medium heat until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish light and balanced.
2. Sauté the Veggies
Add the diced onion, bell pepper (if using), and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the veggies are softened and fragrant. This step builds the flavor foundation of the dish!
3. Season the Meat
Stir in the taco seasoning, making sure the meat and veggies are evenly coated with those delicious taco spices. Tip: If you’re making your own taco seasoning, mix together chili powder, cumin, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne for a custom blend.
4. Add Liquids and Pasta
Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (with the juice) and 2 cups of chicken or beef broth. Stir in the penne pasta, making sure it’s fully submerged in the liquid to cook evenly.
5. Cook the Pasta
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet or pot and cook for 15-18 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. Cook until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
6. Stir in the Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and creamy. The cheese will add richness and bind the dish together.
7. Garnish and Serve
Top your Easy Taco Penne with freshly chopped cilantro if desired. You can also add other toppings like sliced jalapeños, sour cream, or avocado for an extra layer of flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
- Meat Swap: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a meatless alternative for a vegetarian version.
- Cheese Choices: Swap out cheddar for Monterey Jack, a Mexican blend, or even pepper jack for a little kick!
- Veggie Boost: Want more veggies? Add corn, black beans, or chopped zucchini to the skillet with the onion and bell pepper.
- Spice Level: Like it spicy? Add some crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the taco seasoning mix.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen up the pasta.
Freezing: This dish freezes well! Just place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop with a little broth to freshen it up.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Taco Penne is the perfect way to enjoy the bold, vibrant flavors of taco night with the comforting heartiness of pasta. It’s quick, easy, and versatile, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to please a crowd. The one-pot method keeps cleanup minimal, and the dish is endlessly customizable to suit your family’s tastes.
If you give this recipe a try, let me know in the comments what toppings or substitutions you made to make it your own. I love hearing how you customize these dishes!
Pin this recipe for later and share it with fellow taco lovers. Enjoy!
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes! Any short pasta like rotini, ziti, or fusilli will work great. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if needed.
Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Absolutely. Just use a plant-based ground meat substitute or add extra beans and veggies in place of the ground beef.
Q: Can I make this spicier?
A: To add heat, mix in diced jalapeños, use a spicy taco seasoning, or drizzle hot sauce on top before serving.
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