Loaded Taco Pasta Bake is the Ultimate Comfort Food Delight
Loaded Taco Pasta Bake is a comforting casserole that combines cheesy pasta with bold taco flavors, making it a perfect family-friendly meal.
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- - Skillet
- - Pot for boiling pasta
- - Large bowl
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 16 oz Pasta Use short pasta like penne or rotini for best texture; whole wheat is a healthy alternative.
For the Filling
- 1.75 lb Ground Beef Can substitute with ground turkey or a plant-based meat for a lighter version.
- 1.25 cups Onion Red onion can be used for a sweeter note.
- 2 tbsp Garlic Garlic powder can substitute in a pinch (1 tsp).
- 14.5 oz Diced Tomatoes Choose thick varieties like Hunt's to avoid a watery dish.
- 15 oz Tomato Sauce Any general-purpose tomato sauce works.
- 2.5 tbsp Taco Seasoning Store-bought or homemade can be used.
- 0.5 tsp Chili Powder Can increase quantity for a spicier version.
- 15 oz Black Beans Rinsing is essential to avoid excess liquid.
- 4 oz Green Chiles Substitute with jalapeños for a spicier option.
For the Cheesy Topping
- 1.75 cups Monterey Jack Cheese Use pepper jack for extra flavor.
- 1.75 cups Cheddar Cheese Substitute with any preferred cheese.
For the Garnish
- 5 Green Onions Chives can be used as an alternative.
- 0.25 cup Cilantro Omit if not a fan; parsley could work as a substitute.
- Sour Cream Enriches flavor of the final dish.
Instructions
How to Make Loaded Taco Pasta Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to ensure your casserole doesn't stick.
- Prepare the vegetables by dicing the onion, mincing the garlic, slicing the green onions, chopping the cilantro, and shredding the cheeses.
- Cook the pasta in a pot of boiling salted water, but remember to undercook it by 2 minutes less than the package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat with the diced onion and minced garlic until the beef is fully cooked and browned, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, taco seasoning, chili powder, black beans, and green chiles. Let it simmer for 5 minutes on low heat.
- Combine the meat mixture and cooked pasta in a large bowl, adding 1 cup of shredded cheese during the mix. Mix well until everything is beautifully coated.
- Pour the combined mixture into the greased baking dish, making sure it's evenly spread out. Top with the remaining cheese and sprinkle with sliced green onions.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
- Rest the dish for 2-3 minutes after removing it from the oven. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with a dollop of sour cream.
Notes
Optional: Pair with a fresh side salad for a balanced meal!