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Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta

Who doesn’t love a meal that’s quick, cheesy, and packs a flavor punch? Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta fits the bill perfectly! This delightful dish is a comforting blend of hearty ground beef, creamy Velveeta, and zesty taco seasoning, making it a hit at every dinner table. I remember the first time I made this for my family; I was looking for something different for Taco Tuesday, and this recipe quickly became a weekly staple. It's so simple to whip up in just under 30 minutes, making it ideal for those busy weeknights when time is tight, but you still want to serve something delicious.
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Ingredients
  

  • 3 pounds of ground beef
  • 1 box of small shells
  • 1 pack of Velveeta cheese
  • Handful of sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 packs of taco seasoning
  • 1 can of original Rotel
  • 1/2 cup of milk

Instructions
 

  • Brown the Ground Beef: Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Make sure to crumble it nicely as it cooks. Drain any excess fat once it’s cooked thoroughly.
  • Cook the Shells: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add your small shells and cook them according to the package directions until they’re al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Melt the Cheese: Once the ground beef is ready and drained, cut up the entire block of Velveeta cheese. Add it to the skillet with the beef and place it over low heat. Pour in the milk while stirring. This will help melt the cheese into a creamy sauce. Continue to mix until everything is combined and smooth.
  • Combine Ingredients: Now it’s time to add the shells! Toss the cooked pasta into the cheese and beef mixture, stirring until everything is well-coated.
  • Add Seasoning: Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and pour in the can of Rotel. Stir to combine all the flavors, making sure every bit of pasta gets that delicious taco seasoning.
  • Finish with Cheese: Finally, add a handful of sharp cheddar cheese on top, mixing until it’s melted and evenly distributed.
  • Serve and Enjoy: All that’s left is to serve this cheesy goodness to your family and watch their faces light up!
  • What to Serve Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta With
  • What pairs perfectly with Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta, you ask? How about a fresh garden salad to add a crisp, refreshing touch to your meal? Some sliced avocado sprinkled with lime juice would also be a delightful addition. And don’t forget a side of tortilla chips with salsa for that authentic taco experience! As for drinks, a cold glass of iced tea or a refreshing soda complements this cheesy feast wonderfully.
  • Top Tips for Perfecting Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta
  • To make your Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta impeccable, here are a few tips!
  • Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to swap out Velveeta for another type of cheese, but keep in mind that you might lose some of that creamy texture.
  • Timing Adjustments: Always ensure your pasta is cooked al dente to maintain a great texture when combined with the cheesy sauce.
  • Common Mistakes: One mistake many make is not draining the beef enough, which can result in a soupy pasta. Make sure to thoroughly drain the meat beforehand for the best results.
  • Storing and Reheating Tips
  • If you happen to have leftovers (which might be a rarity because it's so good!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy, or pop it in the microwave in short intervals. If you want to freeze it, be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. You can freeze it for up to 2 months; just remember to defrost it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.