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Loaded taco pasta bake with rotini noodles, seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, diced tomatoes, red onion, and fresh cilantro baked in a glass casserole dish.

Loaded Taco Pasta Bake

A hearty fusion casserole combining taco-seasoned ground beef, creamy pasta, and melted cheese, finished with fresh, crunchy toppings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 cup
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef Lean
  • 12 oz Rotini pasta Uncooked
  • 1 packet taco seasoning 1 oz
  • 1 cup salsa Chunky mild
  • 4 oz cream cheese Softened
  • ½ cup beef broth Or water
  • 2 cups Cheddar cheese Shredded
  • ½ cup red onion Diced garnish
  • ½ cup tomatoes Diced garnish
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro Chopped garnish

Equipment

  • 1 9x13 baking dish Glass
  • 1 Large skillet For sauce
  • 1 Cheese Grater For cheese

Method
 

  1. Boil rotini pasta in salted water until al dente; drain.
  2. Brown ground beef in a skillet; drain fat. Add taco seasoning and broth; simmer 2 mins.
  3. Stir in salsa and cream cheese until melted and creamy. Mix in cooked pasta.
  4. Transfer to a 9x13 dish, top with shredded cheddar, and bake at 375°F for 15-20 mins.
  5. Top with red onion, tomatoes, and cilantro before serving.

Notes

Add fresh toppings like red onion and tomatoes after baking for the best texture contrast.