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To truly elevate your Cheesy Taco Pasta Bake Delight, the key lies in skillfully combining the taco ingredients. Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat and adding your choice of protein—ground beef, turkey, or a plant-based alternative. Once the meat is browned and cooked through, drain any excess fat and proceed to mix in the taco seasoning along with diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic.

Easy Cheesy Taco Pasta Bake for Families

Discover the ultimate comfort food with the Cheesy Taco Pasta Bake Delight! This mouthwatering dish combines the rich flavors of taco seasoning, creamy melted cheese, and tender elbow macaroni for a satisfying meal. Perfect for busy families or casual gatherings, it’s easy to prepare in just one pot. With nutritious ingredients like ground meat, black beans, and fresh vegetables, you’ll love how this cheesy pasta bake brings everyone to the table!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz elbow macaroni

1 lb ground beef or turkey

1 medium onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

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

1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies

1 packet taco seasoning

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup sour cream

1 cup salsa

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños, diced avocado, crushed tortilla chips

Instructions
 

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

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

      Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef or turkey. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary.

        Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the meat and sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion is translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.

          Mix in Taco Ingredients: Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and taco seasoning. Mix well and let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes to combine the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

            Combine with Pasta: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, meat mixture, sour cream, and salsa. Mix until everything is well-coated and incorporated.

              Add Cheese: Gently fold in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese into the pasta mixture.

                Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

                  Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the pasta bake.

                    Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

                      Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh cilantro and any optional toppings like jalapeños, avocado, or crushed tortilla chips. Serve warm.

                        Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 45 mins | 6-8 servings