Skillet Taco Pasta Explosion

Name: Skillet Taco Pasta Explosion
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 1 lb ground beef or turkey; 1 taco seasoning packet; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); 2 cups beef or chicken broth; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); 1/2 cup corn (frozen or canned); 1/4 cup chopped green onions; Lime wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Easy Prep Meal Collection

I love experimenting with quick and delicious meals, and this Skillet Taco Pasta Explosion has become one of my go-to favorites. It's the perfect combination of savory taco flavors and comforting pasta, all cooked in one pan. With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip this up in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner option. Each bite is loaded with flavor, and the best part? Cleanup is a breeze with only one skillet to wash!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-02T17:13:02.848Z

When I first created this dish, I was in a rush and needed something quick yet satisfying. I combined my love for tacos with my favorite pasta, and the result was an explosion of flavors that I couldn't resist. The addition of cheese and a pop of lime really ties everything together, making it a complete meal that everyone loves.

I found that cooking everything in one skillet not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you want a bit of heat, just add your favorite hot sauce or jalapeños. Trust me, it's a simple twist that elevates the whole dish!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Easy, one-pan meal that saves time on cleanup.
Rich, savory flavors reminiscent of your favorite taco night.
Comforting pasta dish that's perfect for all ages.

Crafting the Perfect Taco Flavor

The key to achieving an authentic taco flavor in this dish lies in the taco seasoning. The blend of spices typically found in taco seasoning—including cumin, chili powder, and garlic—works harmoniously with the meat and pasta. For an extra kick, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. This simple tweak elevates the flavor profile, adding depth and complexity that will tantalize your taste buds.

When you stir in the diced tomatoes, choose fire-roasted variety if available. These have a rich, smoky flavor that enhances the overall dish, making your Skillet Taco Pasta Explosion even more satisfying. The acidity from the tomatoes also balances the richness of the meat and cheese, ensuring a well-rounded taste that keeps you coming back for more.

Perfecting Your Pasta

Cooking the elbow macaroni to al dente is essential for the texture of this dish. Follow the package instructions closely, but check it a minute or two early. You want the pasta to have a slight bite; it will continue to cook once combined with the other ingredients. If overcooked, the pasta can turn mushy, which would detract from your skillet's satisfaction.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, feel free to substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Just ensure you follow the cooking time on the gluten-free package, as it often differs from traditional pasta. Whichever pasta you choose, tossing it with the other ingredients while still hot helps the cheese melt smoothly, creating a creamy texture throughout.

Serving and Storing Your Skillet Taco Pasta

Serving your Skillet Taco Pasta Explosion is an opportunity to make it even more visually appealing and flavorful. Top each portion with a generous sprinkle of chopped green onions for a fresh crunch, and consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a few slices of avocado to enhance its richness. A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds acidity, which brightens the dish beautifully.

If you happen to have leftovers, this dish stores remarkably well. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to prevent it from drying out, then warm it in a skillet over medium heat. You can also freeze portions for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, ensuring your meal is just as delicious on the second round.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni
1 lb ground beef or turkey
1 taco seasoning packet
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
2 cups beef or chicken broth
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
1/2 cup corn (frozen or canned)
1/4 cup chopped green onions
Lime wedges for serving

Mix and match ingredients according to your preference.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large skillet, bring the broth to a boil and add the elbow macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain any excess liquid.

Brown the Meat

In the same skillet, add the ground beef or turkey. Cook over medium heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add the Flavor

Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, and corn. Combine well, letting it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Fold in the cooked pasta and shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Add green onions on top and serve with lime wedges.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add black beans or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.

Ingredient Variations

One of the virtues of this Skillet Taco Pasta is its adaptability. Instead of ground beef or turkey, feel free to try ground chicken or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option. If you want to sneak in more veggies, consider adding bell peppers or zucchini while browning the meat, enhancing both nutrition and flavors.

For a hint of smokiness, you can substitute fresh corn with smoked corn or roasted corn, which adds depth to the dish. For extra creaminess, consider mixing in cream cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt when adding the cheese, giving a nice tang that pairs beautifully with the taco flavors.

Making it Ahead

Planning your meals ahead can save you time during busy weekdays. Feel free to prep the ground meat ahead of time; simply brown it, then let it cool before storing it in the fridge. This will not only save time on cooking night but also allow the flavors in the meat to develop nicely in the fridge. You may even consider making a larger batch of taco seasoning to store in an airtight container for your next taco-inspired meals.

Another make-ahead strategy is to assemble the skillet without the pasta and cheese, storing it in the fridge. When you're ready to cook, simply boil the pasta and combine everything in the skillet before serving. This way, you have a quick and satisfying meal with several components prepped ahead.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your dish turns out too dry, it's likely because the pasta absorbed too much liquid during cooking. When reheating leftovers, always add a bit more broth to keep it creamy. If you inadvertently added too much taco seasoning, balance it out with a bit more cheese or a splash of cream, which can help mellow the flavors.

In case your cheese doesn't melt smoothly, try using a freshly shredded blend instead of pre-packaged cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent melting. Additionally, adding the cheese in batches while stirring can help achieve that creamy, melty texture you're aiming for.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any short pasta shape works well.

→ Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the meat with black beans or lentils.

→ Can leftovers be stored?

Yes, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce to the mix.