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Queso Taco Pasta

Queso Taco Pasta
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Queso Taco Pasta is a zesty, comforting one-pot meal blending creamy queso cheese with savory taco seasoning and tender pasta. This quick and easy dish combines classic taco flavors with cheesy pasta for a flavorful dinner perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta & Protein

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni or shell pasta
  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey (or plant-based meat for vegetarian option)

Seasonings & Aromatics

  • 1 packet taco seasoning (or about 2 tbsp homemade blend of cumin, chili powder, paprika)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids & Sauces

  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 ½ cups milk or broth (chicken or vegetable)
  • 1 cup queso cheese sauce or prepared queso dip

Optional Toppings

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • Sour cream (for serving)
  • Sliced green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Brown the Meat: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef or turkey along with diced onions and minced garlic. Cook until the meat is browned and fragrant, breaking it up as it cooks. This develops a robust flavor base for the dish.
  2. Add Taco Seasoning and Tomatoes: Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the cooked meat and stir well to coat. Pour in the diced tomatoes with green chilies and let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
  3. Cook the Pasta: Add the dry pasta directly to the pot. Pour in the milk or broth along with enough water if needed to cover the pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  4. Stir in the Cheese: Reduce heat to low. Add the queso cheese sauce or queso dip to the pot and stir until completely melted and creamy, coating all the pasta evenly.
  5. Final Touches: Remove the pot from heat. Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice and sprinkle chopped cilantro on top. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired. Serve warm, garnished with sour cream or green onions if desired.

Notes

  • Use fresh onions and garlic rather than dried powders for better flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the pasta; keep it tender but not mushy.
  • Select a creamy queso dip for smooth melting and avoid grainy texture.
  • Adjust taco seasoning quantity to suit your family’s spice preference.
  • Let the pasta rest off heat for a couple minutes to blend flavors perfectly before serving.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://amandafood.com/queso-taco-pasta/