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Loaded Taco Pasta Bake

Loaded Taco Pasta Bake

This Loaded Taco Pasta Bake combines tender pasta, seasoned beef, melty cheese, and Tex-Mex favorites into one comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole. It's hearty, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights or potluck dinners!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Casserole, Dinner
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 12 oz pasta penne, rotini, or shells
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup corn kernels fresh, canned, or frozen
  • 15 oz black beans drained and rinsed
  • 14.5 oz diced tomatoes with green chilies like Rotel
  • 1 packet taco seasoning or homemade blend
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
  • 1 cup salsa mild, medium, or hot
  • fresh cilantro or green onions chopped, for garnish
  • optional toppings sour cream, sliced jalapeños, diced avocado

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Add diced onion and cook for 4–5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  3. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef mixture and stir to coat. Add corn, black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and salsa. Stir and simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently until well coated.
  5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer half of the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with half the cheese. Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the rest of the cheese. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until melted and golden.
  6. Let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions. Serve with sour cream, jalapeños, or diced avocado if desired.

Notes

For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne or diced fresh jalapeños to the meat mixture. This casserole reheats well and makes excellent leftovers.