Pin This taco pasta skillet has transformed my weeknight dinner routine, combining two family favorites into one irresistible dish. The combination of seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and that signature crunchy Doritos topping creates a meal that disappears within minutes at my table.
I first created this recipe when my children were going through a picky eating phase. The familiar taco flavors combined with their favorite chips turned what could have been a dinner battle into an enthusiastic clean plate club meeting. Now it's requested at least twice a month in our home.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: creates the hearty base for this dish. Look for 85/15 lean to fat ratio for best flavor without excess grease
- Yellow onion and garlic: provide the aromatic foundation. Fresh garlic makes a noticeable difference here
- Red bell pepper: adds sweetness and vibrant color. Choose one that feels heavy for its size
- Corn: brings pops of sweetness throughout the dish. Fresh corn cut from the cob works wonderfully in summer
- Short pasta like rotini or shells: perfectly captures the sauce in their .
- Beef broth: infuses the pasta with flavor as it cooks. Homemade provides the richest taste
- Taco seasoning: blends multiple spices into one convenient addition. I prefer making my own blend for controlled sodium
- Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses: create the perfect melty texture. Grate from blocks rather than using pre shredded for better melting
- Nacho Cheese Doritos: provide that irresistible crunch factor. Crush just before using to maintain texture
Instructions
- Brown the Beef:
- Cook ground beef in olive oil over medium high heat for about 5 minutes until no pink remains. Break it into small crumbles using a wooden spoon. The smaller pieces distribute better throughout the dish. Drain excess fat if necessary but leave a little for flavor.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Add diced onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper to the beef. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. The vegetables should soften but not brown which would make them bitter.
- Season the Mixture:
- Sprinkle taco seasoning, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika over the meat and vegetable mixture. Stir continuously for about one minute to toast the spices and release their essential oils. Your kitchen should fill with an incredible aroma at this point.
- Create the One Pot Base:
- Add uncooked pasta, corn, tomato sauce, and broth to the skillet. Stir thoroughly to ensure all pasta is submerged in liquid. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer where small bubbles appear around the edges of the pan.
- Simmer to Perfection:
- Reduce heat to medium low and cover the skillet. Allow everything to cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring every 3 to 4 minutes to prevent sticking. The pasta should become tender and most of the liquid should be absorbed but not completely dry.
- Add Creaminess:
- Stir in the sour cream and half of both cheeses until completely incorporated. This creates a luxurious sauce that coats every bite. The residual heat will melt the cheese without making it stringy.
- Melt the Cheese Topping:
- Sprinkle remaining cheese over the entire surface. Cover and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until cheese is completely melted but not browned. The steam under the lid creates the perfect environment for even melting.
- Add the Signature Crunch:
- Remove skillet from heat and immediately top with crushed Doritos and fresh cilantro. Serve right away to maintain the perfect contrast between the warm, cheesy pasta and the crunchy topping.
Pin The smoked paprika might seem like a small optional addition, but it adds an incredible depth that elevates this dish from good to memorable. I discovered its importance accidentally when I ran out once and noticed the difference immediately. My youngest son actually asked what was missing that night, proving that even subtle ingredients matter in building flavor memories.
Make Ahead Options
This dish reheats beautifully making it perfect for busy families. Prepare everything through the cheese melting step, then cool and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat in a covered skillet over medium low heat with a splash of broth to revive the sauce. Add the Doritos topping just before serving to maintain their signature crunch. The flavors actually develop overnight, making this possibly even better the next day.
Creative Variations
Transform this recipe throughout the year by making seasonal adjustments. In summer, use fresh corn cut from the cob and add diced zucchini. Fall calls for diced butternut squash added with the vegetables. Winter comfort food version works beautifully with a handful of chopped kale stirred in just before adding cheese. Spring brings opportunities for fresh herbs like basil and oregano mixed with the cilantro.
Serving Suggestions
Create a complete Tex Mex feast by serving this alongside a simple green salad dressed with . For casual entertaining, set up a toppings bar with additional options like sliced avocado, pickled jalapeños, diced tomatoes, and extra sour cream. This allows guests to customize their portions while keeping the preparation simple. For a lighter meal, serve smaller portions in wide shallow bowls with a side of roasted vegetables.
Kid Friendly Adaptations
My children helped develop this recipe through their honest feedback. For younger palates, reduce the taco seasoning by half and omit the smoked paprika. Let children crush their own Doritos to sprinkle on top for engagement in the cooking process. Create a fun naming contest for the dish to build excitement about trying it. In our house, this became known as Cowboy Skillet Surprise after my son decided that was a more exciting name than Taco Pasta.
Pin Enjoy this flavorful and quick weeknight meal. It truly is a crowd-pleaser!
Recipe Q&A
- → What pasta shapes work best for this skillet?
Short shapes like rotini, penne, or shells hold sauce and meld well with the ground beef and cheese.
- → Can I substitute the ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey or a plant-based alternative can be used. Adjust cooking time as needed for different meats.
- → How do I keep the Doritos topping crunchy?
Add the crushed Doritos just before serving to maintain their crunch and prevent sogginess.
- → What’s the best way to add extra heat?
Include diced jalapeño with the vegetables or finish with a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- → Can I make this meal ahead of time?
Yes, but wait to add the cheese topping and Doritos until reheating and serving for optimal texture.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
A crisp salad, pico de gallo, or simply sliced avocado make perfect accompaniments to this skillet.