Taco Penne Pasta
Looking for a delicious twist on classic taco flavors? This Taco Penne Pasta recipe is a delightful fusion of Mexican and Italian cuisines that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. It’s a perfect dish for a cozy dinner at home or to impress guests at a casual get-together. The combination of savory ground beef, aromatic spices, tangy taco sauce, and hearty pasta will make this a family favorite in no time. Let’s dive into creating this delectable dish!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (2.25 oz) sliced black olives, drained
– 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup corn kernels
– 1 cup taco sauce
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
– Sour cream and avocado slices, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into crumbles with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
3. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef mixture and stir well to combine, letting the spices toast for a minute to release their flavors.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, diced green chilies, black beans, corn kernels, taco sauce, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir to mix everything thoroughly.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Meanwhile, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
8. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef and vegetable mixture. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.
9. Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
10. Sprinkle the shredded Mexican blend cheese over the top of the pasta.
11. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
12. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
13. Once out of the oven, let the Taco Penne Pasta rest for a few minutes before garnishing with chopped fresh cilantro.
14. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream and avocado slices on the side.
This Taco Penne Pasta is a delicious and satisfying meal that will win over your family and friends with its bold flavors and comforting appeal. It’s a fantastic dish for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends when you crave a hearty and tasty dinner. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite taco toppings like jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or extra cheese. Enjoy this fusion of flavors that brings together the best of both worlds in one delightful dish!
