Name: Taco Pasta Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex / American
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (rotini, penne, or shells); 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey); 1 small onion, diced; 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade blend); 1/2 cup water; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup corn (frozen or canned, drained); 1 1/2 cups salsa (or enchilada sauce); 2 cups shredded Mexican blend or cheddar cheese, divided; sour cream; diced tomatoes; cilantro; jalapeños; avocado

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If you’re a fan of bold flavors and easy weeknight wins, Taco Pasta Casserole is about to become your new go-to comfort food. This dish layers tender pasta with seasoned ground beef, bright salsa, hearty beans, sweet corn, and mountains of melty cheese—all finished with your favorite Tex-Mex toppings. It’s the perfect make-ahead casserole for feeding a hungry family or dazzling a table of friends, and it’s just as impressive on busy weeknights as it is for casual gatherings. Every bite is packed with zesty, cheesy goodness that will have everyone reaching for seconds!

Taco Pasta Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Taco Pasta Casserole is how just a handful of straightforward ingredients can blend together for maximum flavor. Each one brings something special—whether it’s a punch of spice, a pop of color, or that irresistible cheesy stretch.

Pasta (12 oz): Rotini, penne, or shells give the casserole texture and catch all that saucy goodness.
Ground beef (1 lb): Brings hearty, savory depth—swap for ground turkey for a lighter feel if you like.
Onion (1 small, diced): Adds sweetness and flavor as the base of your meaty mix.
Taco seasoning (1 packet or 2 tbsp homemade): The key to that classic Tex-Mex kick.
Water (1/2 cup): Helps the taco spices blend perfectly with the meat.
Black beans (1 can, rinsed & drained): Provide earthy body and make the casserole extra satisfying.
Corn (1 cup, frozen or canned): Offers a touch of sweetness and vibrant color throughout.
Salsa (1 1/2 cups): Layers in flavor and moisture—enchilada sauce works for a saucier twist.
Shredded cheese (2 cups, divided): For ultimate bubbly, golden cheesiness—use Mexican blend or sharp cheddar.
Optional toppings: Sour cream, diced tomatoes, cilantro, jalapeños, avocado—make it your own!

How to Make Taco Pasta Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a trusty 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures nothing sticks and the casserole bakes up golden on the edges for beautiful presentation and easy serving.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the oven heats, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. You want it with just a bit of bite, since it’ll finish cooking as it bakes. Drain it well and set it to the side—it’s eagerly awaiting its starring role in the casserole.

Step 3: Brown the Beef and Onion

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion together. Stir occasionally, breaking up the beef, until everything is nicely browned and fragrant. Drain off any excess grease for a lighter casserole with the same big flavor.

Step 4: Add Seasonings

Sprinkle the taco seasoning right into the skillet and pour in the water. Stir and let the mixture simmer for two to three minutes—this step transforms the meat into the perfect base for your Taco Pasta Casserole, making sure every bite is flavor-packed and juicy.

Step 5: Mix in Beans, Corn, Salsa, and Pasta

Now, bring in the black beans, corn, and salsa, tossing everything together until it’s thoroughly combined. Fold in your cooked pasta and mix until all those delicious flavors are evenly distributed. This is where the magic of the casserole comes alive!

Step 6: Add Cheese and Assemble

Gently stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheese until the pasta mixture is extra creamy and irresistible. Transfer everything to your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top, then generously sprinkle over the remaining cheese for that signature bubbly finish.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the oven and bake uncovered for 20 minutes. You want the cheese completely melted and lightly golden, with the casserole hot and bubbling—it’ll smell so good you’ll want to dive in right away.

Step 8: Top and Serve

Once baked, pull it from the oven and let it sit for a couple of minutes to set. Serve your Taco Pasta Casserole hot, loaded up with your favorite toppings for extra color and flavor. Every serving is pure weeknight dinner bliss!

How to Serve Taco Pasta Casserole

Garnishes

The best part about serving Taco Pasta Casserole is customizing each plate! A scoop of tangy sour cream, bright diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, fresh jalapeños, or creamy avocado can transform each bite. Arrange the toppings buffet-style, so everyone can dress up their serving just the way they like.

Side Dishes

Balance all that cheesy goodness with a crisp green salad, a bowl of tortilla chips with guacamole, or even some sautéed veggies. If you’re feeling festive, a side of Mexican rice or elote-style corn on the cob rounds out your meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, spoon hearty scoops into individual ramekins for personalized servings. Or, make mini Taco Pasta Casseroles in muffin tins for irresistible bite-size portions at parties or potlucks. Swirl on a finishing drizzle of crema and a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips for an extra-special presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow manage to have leftovers, Taco Pasta Casserole keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator. Simply cover tightly and store for up to four days. The flavors meld even more after a rest, making next-day lunches or quick dinners just as satisfying.

Freezing

This casserole is a dream for meal preppers. Assemble everything up to the baking step, cover tightly with foil or a lid, and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready, pop it straight into the oven from frozen (adding a little extra bake time) or let it thaw overnight for faster reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F until everything is warmed through. For single servings, the microwave works perfectly—just be sure to stir halfway for even heating. A quick sprinkle of fresh cheese before reheating perks the casserole right up!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Rotini, penne, and shells are classics for Taco Pasta Casserole, but any short pasta that holds sauce will work—try fusilli or even elbow macaroni for a fun twist.

Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes, simply leave out the ground beef or swap it for a plant-based meat substitute, extra beans, or even sautéed mushrooms. The Tex-Mex flavors still shine through beautifully in every forkful.

How can I make my Taco Pasta Casserole spicier?

If you love heat, use a spicy salsa or a hot taco seasoning blend. You can also stir in diced jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or a dash of hot sauce right into the filling.

Can I assemble this dish ahead of time?

Definitely! Prepare your Taco Pasta Casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, then bake as directed for a quick and easy meal.

Does this casserole work with gluten-free or dairy-free swaps?

Yes, it’s super adaptable. Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make it celiac-friendly, and swap in dairy-free cheese for a delicious, melty, lactose-free version of Taco Pasta Casserole. Your whole table will be impressed!

Final Thoughts

If you’re hunting for an easy, heartwarming dinner that’s destined to become a favorite, you truly can’t go wrong with Taco Pasta Casserole. With its bold flavors, cheesy goodness, and effortless prep, it’s a true crowd-pleaser every time. Give it a try and watch your loved ones ask for it again and again!