Mouthwatering Taco Pasta Casserole

Name: Mouthwatering Taco Pasta Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz elbow macaroni; 1 lb ground beef or turkey; 1 packet taco seasoning mix; 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn kernels, frozen or canned; 24 oz jar of salsa; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup sour cream; Chopped cilantro and diced avocados for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Kitchen Recipes

When I first made this Mouthwatering Taco Pasta Casserole, I was blown away by how delicious and satisfying it turned out to be. The combination of taco spices with hearty pasta creates a symphony of flavors that is sure to please anyone at the table. It's an easy one-dish meal perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends and family. I love how this dish showcases the best of both worlds—Mexican and Italian cuisine—while being topped with melty cheese. Trust me, you'll want to make it again and again!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:53:08.057Z

I remember the first time I served this casserole; everyone couldn't stop raving about it. The combination of flavors and textures—from the tender pasta to the zesty taco seasoning—was a hit with both kids and adults. What really sets this dish apart is the three-cheese blend that transforms a simple meal into a cheesy delight. I recommend using a mix of cheddar, mozzarella, and pepper jack for a perfect balance of creaminess and flavor.

As you prepare this recipe, don't hesitate to customize it by adding your favorite taco ingredients, like black beans or corn. I like to finish off the casserole with fresh cilantro and diced avocado for a fresh touch that complements the warm spices beautifully. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies and make the dish even more colorful on your table!

What You'll Love About This Casserole
Hearty pasta and savory taco flavors combined in one dish
Cheesy topping that adds an incredible creamy texture
Perfectly customizable with your favorite toppings and ingredients

Embracing Flavor Harmony

The fusion of taco spices with pasta creates a remarkable flavor profile that's both comforting and exciting. The seasoned meat brings depth, while the black beans add protein and a creamy texture. The corn infuses a touch of sweetness, harmonizing beautifully with the savory elements. Each bite is a melding of tastes that echoes both Mexican and Italian classics, delivering satisfaction in every forkful. Let the spices shine, and don't hesitate to adjust the taco seasoning to suit your palate; a pinch of cayenne can elevate the dish with a delightful kick.

Using quality salsa not only enhances the flavor but also contributes moisture, ensuring that the pasta doesn’t dry out during baking. Opt for a chunky salsa to add texture, or a smooth one for a rich, cohesive bite. If you want to introduce some zing, consider a salsa verde; it’ll offer a vibrant twist to your casserole, delighting your guests with a surprising burst of flavor. Experimenting with different salsas can turn this comforting dish into a fun exploration of tastes.

Cheese Choices and Texture Tips

The cheese topping is crucial for both flavor and texture; hence, a combination of cheddar and mozzarella works wonders. Cheddar provides a sharpness that complements the spices, while mozzarella contributes a stretchy, gooey consistency. For a stronger flavor, consider adding crumbled feta or pepper jack into the blend. When combining cheeses, aim for equal parts to ensure a balance of creaminess and tang, guaranteeing that each bite has a delightful mix of textures.

To achieve that coveted bubbly and golden finish, keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes. A baking time of around 20 minutes at 350°F (175°C) is usually sufficient, but every oven can vary. Look for the cheese to melt beautifully and begin to bubble, with the edges starting to brown slightly. If your casserole isn't browning as desired, you can switch to broiling for the last couple of minutes—but monitor closely to prevent burning.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious taco casserole.

Ingredients

12 oz elbow macaroni
1 lb ground beef or turkey
1 packet taco seasoning mix
15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn kernels, frozen or canned
24 oz jar of salsa
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup sour cream
Chopped cilantro and diced avocados for garnish

Once you’ve gathered everything, you’re ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Mouthwatering Taco Pasta Casserole.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted 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, cook the ground beef or turkey until browned. Drain any excess fat.

Add Taco Seasoning

Stir in the taco seasoning mix along with black beans, corn, and salsa. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Combine with Pasta

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat mixture and sour cream. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Layer and Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro and diced avocados before serving.

Now you can enjoy a delightful and hearty meal!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, add sliced jalapeños to the casserole before baking, or serve with hot salsa on the side.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Taco Pasta Casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble it a day in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully overnight. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if you bake it straight from the fridge, ensuring it heats through evenly. Alternatively, you can prepare and freeze the unbaked casserole. Wrap it tightly in foil for up to three months; just be sure to label it with the date.

When ready to bake a frozen casserole, it's best to thaw it in the refrigerator for 24 hours before cooking. If you're in a rush, you can bake it from frozen but plan for a longer cooking time—around 45-60 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Check for doneness by ensuring it's heated throughout and the cheese is bubbly. This makes it a fantastic dish for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this casserole with a simple green salad drizzled with lime vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. The acidity of the dressing complements the richness of the casserole beautifully. I also enjoy serving it alongside tortilla chips for added crunch; they're perfect for scooping up the cheesy goodness. For a touch of heat, offer jalapeños on the side, or top individual portions with hot sauce—this helps to customize the spice level for each guest.

Consider using this casserole as a base for a loaded taco night! Set up a taco bar with ingredients like diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and sliced olives. Guests can personalize their servings by layering on their favorite toppings, transforming a simple casserole into an interactive meal that caters to everyone's tastes. This extra step makes serving a fun experience, especially for gatherings with family and friends.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can substitute elbow macaroni with any pasta of your choice like penne or fusilli.

→ Is there a vegetarian option?

Yes! Simply replace the meat with more beans or lentils for a hearty vegetarian version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, then reheat in the oven or microwave.

→ Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole. Just cover it tightly with foil and store for up to 3 months.