Description
This taco pasta casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines seasoned ground beef, pasta, black beans, corn, salsa, and melted cheese. Perfect for a family-friendly weeknight dinner, it delivers a Tex-Mex twist with easy preparation and a cheesy baked finish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (rotini, penne, or shells)
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade blend)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned, drained)
- 1 1/2 cups salsa (or enchilada sauce)
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend or cheddar cheese, divided
Optional Toppings
- Sour cream
- Diced tomatoes
- Cilantro
- Jalapeños
- Avocado
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Cook Beef and Onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is browned and the onions are softened. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Season Meat: Add the taco seasoning and water to the cooked beef mixture, then simmer for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld and the sauce thicken slightly.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the rinsed black beans, drained corn, salsa, and the cooked pasta. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute all components.
- Cheese Incorporation: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese into the mixture to add creaminess and bind the casserole ingredients together.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese over the top for a bubbly, golden crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot. Add optional toppings such as sour cream, diced tomatoes, cilantro, jalapeños, or avocado according to your preference.
Notes
- For extra heat, add sliced jalapeños or use a spicier salsa variety.
- Swap regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free options to accommodate dietary needs.
- This casserole can be assembled a day in advance, covered, and refrigerated until ready to bake.
- Freeze leftovers tightly wrapped for up to 3 months; thaw before reheating.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole / Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop and Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex / American
