Cheesy Ground Beef Nacho Pasta Bake

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes elicit the same warm and nostalgic feelings as a hearty pasta bake. The Cheesy Ground Beef Nacho Pasta Bake perfectly embodies this category, combining familiar flavors and textures that make it a beloved choice for families and friends alike. This dish seamlessly marries the indulgence of cheesy pasta with the robust flavors of taco night, creating a fusion that’s not only filling but also delightfully satisfying. Whether you're hosting a gathering, looking for a quick weeknight dinner solution, or simply want to enjoy a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

Looking for the ultimate comfort food? Try the Cheesy Ground Beef Nacho Pasta Bake! This delightful dish combines the creaminess of cheesy pasta with the flavorful kick of taco seasonings. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings. With a mix of hearty ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a blend of cheeses, this pasta bake is both satisfying and delicious. Make it your go-to recipe for a cozy night in!

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Ingredients

8 oz. elbow macaroni

1 lb. ground beef

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 packet (1 oz.) taco seasoning

1 can (14 oz.) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained

1 can (15 oz.) black beans, rinsed and drained

1 cup corn (frozen or canned)

1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

1 cup sour cream

½ cup freshly chopped cilantro (optional)

½ cup sliced jalapeños (optional)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Olive oil

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add Ground Beef: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Mix Ingredients: Once the beef is cooked, drain excess fat if necessary. Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with their juices, black beans, corn, and cooked macaroni. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.

Cheese It Up: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the sour cream and half of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, mixing until creamy.

Bake: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheeses on top. If desired, add jalapeños and cilantro for extra flavor.

Oven Time: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and cheesy.

Serve: Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Serve warm, garnished with extra cilantro, jalapeños, or sour cream if desired. Enjoy!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 50 minutes | 6-8 servings