Print

Creamy Taco Beef Pasta Bake

creamy taco beef pasta bake - featured image
Print Recipe

This easy one-pot creamy taco beef pasta bake combines savory taco-seasoned beef, black beans, and pasta in a luscious, cheesy sauce. It’s a high-protein, family-friendly comfort food dinner that comes together quickly and reheats beautifully.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean preferred)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained (fire-roasted recommended)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups low sodium beef broth
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce or salsa
  • 10 oz dry pasta shells or rotini (whole wheat, protein, or gluten-free as desired)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack/Mexican blend)
  • 1/2 cup milk (2% or whole, or plant-based alternative)
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack (for topping, optional)
  • Sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, or chopped tomatoes (for garnish, optional)
  • Sour cream, avocado, or jalapeños (for serving, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cube cream cheese and set out to soften.
  2. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef for 4-5 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon.
  3. Add diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  4. Sprinkle in taco seasoning and stir to coat beef and onions. Let cook for 1 minute.
  5. Add diced tomatoes (with juice), black beans, tomato sauce or salsa, and beef broth. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits.
  6. Stir in dry pasta, ensuring it is submerged in the sauce.
  7. Bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring every few minutes. Check pasta at 10 minutes; it should be al dente. Add a splash of water or broth if sauce thickens too much.
  8. Stir in softened cream cheese cubes and milk until melted and creamy.
  9. Add 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  10. Sprinkle remaining shredded cheese over the top. Transfer skillet to oven (or pour into casserole dish if needed). Bake uncovered for 12-15 minutes until bubbly and golden. Broil for 1-2 minutes for a crispier top if desired.
  11. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Top with green onions, cilantro, or other garnishes.
  12. Serve hot with optional sour cream, avocado, or jalapeños.

Notes

For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and check your taco seasoning. To make vegetarian, omit beef and double the beans. Stir pasta frequently while simmering to prevent sticking. Let dairy come to room temperature for a smoother sauce. Leftovers reheat well; add a splash of milk if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: taco pasta, beef pasta bake, creamy pasta, one pot dinner, high protein, family dinner, Mexican casserole, easy weeknight meal

Find it online: https://blairrecipes.com/creamy-taco-beef-pasta-bake-recipe-easy-one-pot-high-protein-dinner/