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Loaded Taco Pasta Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 67 reviews

Loaded Taco Pasta Bake is a flavorful and hearty casserole combining seasoned ground beef, black beans, tomatoes with green chilies, corn, and a blend of cheeses baked to bubbly perfection. This dish brings together the best of Tex-Mex and Italian flavors in a comforting pasta bake, perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 ounces penne pasta

Beef Mixture

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or canned)

Other Ingredients

  • 1 cup salsa (mild or spicy)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup diced green onions
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. Brown the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  3. Season and Add Veggies: Sprinkle the taco seasoning packet over the browned beef, stirring well to coat evenly. Add the rinsed and drained black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and corn kernels. Stir to combine and let simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
  4. Mix Pasta and Sauce: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Combine the cooked penne pasta with the beef and veggie mixture in the skillet or transfer to a large bowl. Stir in the salsa and sour cream until fully blended.
  5. Assemble and Bake: Transfer the pasta mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
  6. Add Fresh Toppings and Serve: Remove the bake from the oven and sprinkle diced green onions and chopped fresh cilantro over the top. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Loaded Taco Pasta Bake!

Notes

  • Do not overcook pasta; al dente texture prevents mushiness in the bake.
  • Adjust spice level by choosing mild or hot taco seasoning and salsa varieties.
  • Add diced bell pepper or jalapeño when browning beef for extra flavor.
  • For a crispy cheese topping, broil the bake for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  • Freeze assembled bake without cheese topping for up to 3 months; add cheese and bake fresh when ready to enjoy.

Keywords: taco pasta bake, loaded pasta bake, taco casserole, ground beef pasta bake, Tex-Mex pasta

Find it online: https://cookwithlea.com/loaded-taco-pasta-bake-recipe/