Description
A one-pan Mexican-American comfort dish combining seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, melted cheddar, and zesty salsa. Ready in 30 minutes with minimal cleanup and loaded with family-approved flavors.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs ground beef
1 lb penne or rigatoni pasta
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 tbsp taco seasoning (or 1 packet)
1.5 cups salsa
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 cups beef broth (low-sodium)
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat
Add ground beef, cook until browned and crumbled
Stir in diced onion; cook until softened
Pour in beef broth, bring to a simmer
Season with taco seasoning, salt, and pepper
Add uncooked pasta to absorb broth and thicken sauce
Reduce heat, add shredded cheese and salsa; stir until cheese is melted
Simmer 5-7 minutes until pasta is tender and sauce is cohesive
Notes
Use ground turkey for a lighter protein option
Cook pasta just shy of al dente to prevent mushiness
Add optional toppings like cilantro, diced avocado, or lime wedges
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 1200 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg