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Loaded Taco Pasta Bake

Loaded Taco Pasta Bake That's Perfect for Busy Nights

A comforting and delicious Loaded Taco Pasta Bake infused with flavors of tacos, ideal for busy nights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 3 minutes
Total Time 43 minutes
Course dinner
Cuisine Tex-Mex
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • - Oven
  • - Skillet
  • - Large pot
  • - Mixing bowl
  • - Baking dish

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta

  • 12 ounces short pasta (rotini or penne)

For the Meat Mixture

  • 1 pound ground beef can substitute with ground turkey or chicken
  • 1 medium onion finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic freshly minced

For the Saucy Base

  • 1 can diced tomatoes drained well
  • 1 cup tomato sauce smooth variety preferred
  • 1 packet taco seasoning adjust based on spice preference
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder optional

For Fiber and Texture

  • 1 can black beans drained
  • 1 can green chiles canned variety for convenience

For the Cheesy Topping

  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese freshly shredded
  • 1 cup Cheddar cheese freshly shredded

For Garnish

  • 2 stalks green onions sliced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro optional, chopped

For Serving

  • 1 cup sour cream for topping

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Dice the onion and mince the garlic. If using, slice the green onions and chop cilantro.
  • In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta for 2 minutes less than the package instructions.

Cooking

  • In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the diced onion and minced garlic until fully cooked.
  • Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, taco seasoning, chili powder (if using), black beans, and green chiles. Let simmer for about 5 minutes.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta with the meat sauce. Stir in 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese.

Baking

  • Pour the pasta mixture into a lightly greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
  • Top with remaining cheese and sprinkle the sliced green onions over the top.
  • Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serving

  • Allow to rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
  • Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with sour cream on top.

Notes

This dish tastes even better as leftovers. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze unbaked for up to 3 months.
Keyword Casserole, easy dinner, family meal, Loaded Taco Pasta Bake, meal prep, Pasta Bake