Spicy Taco Pasta Skillet

Name: Spicy Taco Pasta Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz (225g) pasta (fusilli or penne works great); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lb (450g) ground beef or turkey; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth; 1 cup corn (canned or frozen); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Quick Meal Recipes

I've always loved the comforting taste of pasta, but when I decided to add a kick to it, everything changed. This Spicy Taco Pasta Skillet combines my love for Mexican flavors with the hearty goodness of pasta, creating a meal that's both fun and delicious. The first time I made it, the aroma of spices and melted cheese wafting through my kitchen had my family running in for seconds. It's a fantastic weeknight dinner that comes together in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-02T16:42:28.329Z

When I first crafted this recipe, I wanted to create a dish that brought the vibrant flavors of taco night into a quick pasta meal. I decided to use a mix of spices to create a zesty flavor profile, and it worked wonderfully! I also discovered that incorporating bell peppers not only adds sweetness but also beautiful color to the dish.

One key tip I learned is to ensure you cook the pasta just slightly al dente before adding it to the skillet. This method prevents the pasta from becoming mushy as it absorbs the rich sauce, keeping it perfectly textured and bursting with flavor. I highly recommend it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A perfect blend of spicy and cheesy goodness
One skillet means less cleanup and more family time
Versatile enough to customize with your favorite toppings

Ingredient Insights

The choice of pasta is crucial in this Spicy Taco Pasta Skillet. Fusilli or penne works best due to their ability to hold onto the rich sauce and bits of meat, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. If you're looking to swap out the pasta for a gluten-free option, try using brown rice pasta or a chickpea-based alternative, which will maintain the dish's heartiness while catering to dietary restrictions.

The taco seasoning is what brings the full-bodied flavor to the dish. If you don't have a packet on hand, you can easily make your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, and a hint of cayenne. This homemade blend gives you control over the spice level—so adjust it to suit your taste. Just remember that a little goes a long way!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, this dish stores beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture. Stir frequently until heated through, about 5–7 minutes.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish in portions. It holds up well for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This method preserves the flavors and texture of the dish, making for a quick weeknight meal that’s just as delicious as the first time around.

Serving Suggestions

Presentation can elevate the dining experience, especially with a dish as colorful as this Spicy Taco Pasta Skillet. Consider serving it in a large bowl topped with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, and slices of fresh jalapeños for an extra kick. This not only enhances the flavors but also adds visual appeal.

For a complete meal, pair this skillet with a side of tortilla chips and salsa or a simple avocado salad. The crunchiness of the chips complements the creamy cheese, while the salad adds freshness. These accompaniments make for a lively, effortless dinner that feels festive without extensive prep time.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz (225g) pasta (fusilli or penne works great)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb (450g) ground beef or turkey
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste

Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add diced onion and bell pepper, sauté until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Brown the Meat

Add ground beef or turkey to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 7–10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Add Seasonings

Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the meat mixture, stirring to combine. Add the diced tomatoes and broth, bringing it to a simmer.

Combine Everything

Stir in the corn and the cooked pasta, mixing thoroughly. Allow the dish to simmer for 5–7 minutes, letting the flavors meld.

Add Cheese

Top with shredded cheddar cheese, cover, and let it sit on low heat for 3–5 minutes until the cheese is melted.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or some hot sauce to the meat mixture. Don't forget to garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions before serving!

Customizations to Try

One of the best parts of this recipe is its versatility. Experiment with different proteins like shredded chicken or a plant-based meat substitute to cater to your dietary needs. Black beans or lentils could also be swapped in for a meatless version, maintaining the hearty quality while enhancing the fiber content.

You can also adjust the spice level to your preference. Adding diced green chilies right alongside the onions can amplify the heat, or for a milder approach, use a sweet pepper instead of a spicy bell pepper. Don't hesitate to play around with toppings as well—avocado slices or crumbled queso fresco can elevate the dish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your pasta is overcooked and mushy, it might have simmered too long in the skillet after combining with the sauce. To avoid this, make sure to drain your pasta while it's still al dente; it will continue cooking in the skillet. If you find yourself in a pinch with overcooked pasta, consider adding a splash of cream or cheese to help bring moisture back.

Another common issue is a watery sauce. If your mixture ends up looking more like soup, let it simmer uncovered for a few additional minutes to allow excess liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can thicken the sauce by stirring in a cornstarch slurry—just mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with water and add it in while simmering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the meat with black beans or lentils for a plant-based version.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

→ Can I freeze this pasta skillet?

Yes, cool completely and freeze in a container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Sour cream or avocado are perfect toppings too!