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Loaded Taco Pasta Bake

Loaded Taco Pasta Bake: Your New Family Favorite Casserole

Loaded Taco Pasta Bake is a comforting casserole that combines the flavors of taco night with classic pasta bake.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 3 minutes
Total Time 58 minutes
Course dinner
Cuisine American, Mexican
Servings 8 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • - Large pot
  • - Skillet
  • Mixing bowl

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole

  • 16 oz Pasta Use short shapes like penne or rotini to hold the sauce well.
  • 1.75 lb Ground Beef Opt for lean ground beef and drain fat for a less greasy dish.
  • 1.25 cup Onion Finely diced for even cooking and rich flavor.
  • 2 tbsp Garlic Minced for widespread flavor enhancement.
  • 14.5 oz Diced Tomatoes Choose a thicker brand like Hunt's.
  • 15 oz Tomato Sauce Adds creaminess and additional flavor.
  • 2.5 tbsp Taco Seasoning Adjust to match your preferred spice level.
  • 0.5 tsp Chili Powder Adds warmth and depth.
  • 15 oz Black Beans Rinse and drain to avoid excess liquid.
  • 4 oz Green Chiles For extra flavor; substitute with milder varieties if preferred.
  • 1.75 cup Monterey Jack Cheese Freshly shredded for the best texture.
  • 1.75 cup Cheddar Cheese Choose aged cheddar for a bolder taste.
  • 5 Green Onions Sliced for garnish.
  • 0.25 cup Cilantro Use for garnish to elevate the dish.
  • Sour Cream Optional, for a creamy, tangy touch.

Instructions
 

How to Make Loaded Taco Pasta Bake

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  • Dice the onion and mince the garlic, preparing the herbs and cheese.
  • Boil salted water and cook the pasta for 2 minutes less than package directions. Drain and set aside.
  • Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat with onions and garlic, and drain excess fat.
  • Mix in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, taco seasoning, chili powder, black beans, and green chiles, and simmer for 5 minutes.
  • Combine cooked pasta with the meat mixture and add 1 cup of shredded cheese.
  • Spread the pasta mixture in the baking dish, top with remaining cheese and sliced green onions.
  • Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  • Let rest for 2-3 minutes, then garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

Serve individual portions with a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
Keyword casserole, family meal, Loaded Taco Pasta Bake, pasta bake, taco night