Savory Taco Pasta Casserole Delight

Name: Savory Taco Pasta Casserole Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 1 lb ground beef or turkey; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned); 1 cup salsa; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup chopped green onions; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Global Meals

I absolutely love creating comforting and delicious meals, and this Savory Taco Pasta Casserole Delight is one of my favorites! It combines the bold flavors of taco seasoning with hearty pasta, lots of cheese, and ground meat, all baked to perfection. It's the ultimate comfort food that brings everyone together for a cozy dinner. Every bite is packed with flavor and a creamy texture that I can't resist. Plus, it’s super easy to make, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-01T17:34:28.459Z

When I first made this casserole, I wasn't sure how all the flavors would blend together, but the result was absolutely delightful. Using taco seasoning really amps up the flavor profile, and the combination of pasta and cheese gives it that comforting quality we all crave on busy nights.

I've experimented with different toppings, and one of my favorite additions is fresh cilantro and sliced jalapeños. These give a nice kick and an extra dimension of flavor that really takes the dish to another level!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich flavors of traditional tacos in a comforting casserole form
Creamy and cheesy texture that's perfect for family dinners
Easily customizable with your favorite toppings and ingredients

Choosing the Right Meat

Selecting the right type of meat can significantly affect the flavor profile of your Savory Taco Pasta Casserole Delight. Ground beef offers a richer, traditional taco taste, while ground turkey provides a lighter alternative. If you opt for turkey, consider using a bit of olive oil in the skillet to prevent it from drying out. Look for 85% lean ground beef or a similar ratio for turkey to ensure your dish remains juicy and flavorful.

Another option is to use a combination of meats. Mixing ground beef and turkey can balance both taste and texture, giving you the best of both worlds. Cooking times will remain similar, typically between 5-7 minutes, but keep an eye on the color change to ensure thorough cooking.

Customizing Your Casserole

One of the great things about this casserole is its versatility. You can easily make it vegetarian by replacing the meat with cooked lentils or crumbled tofu. Additionally, choose your favorite beans such as pinto or kidney beans instead of black beans. Adjusting the salsa to use a spicy variety can also elevate the heat level if your family enjoys a kick.

For added flavor depth, try incorporating bell peppers or jalapeños into the meat mixture. Sauté them along with the meat until they are tender and fragrant. Also, fresh cilantro can be sprinkled on top before serving for a burst of freshness that complements the rich, cheesy filling nicely.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients needed to make this mouthwatering casserole:

Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni
1 lb ground beef or turkey
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 cup salsa
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup chopped green onions
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious casserole:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the elbow macaroni. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Brown the Meat

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef or turkey. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease.

Combine Ingredients

Add taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and salsa to the skillet with the meat. Stir to combine and let simmer for about 5 minutes.

Mix in Pasta and Cheese

Add the drained macaroni, sour cream, and half of the cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir until everything is well combined.

Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious taco pasta casserole!

This casserole is sure to be a hit at your table!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or substituting the proteins. For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with extra beans or lentils.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating is easy; you can use the microwave or oven. When microwaving, place a damp paper towel over the dish to keep it moist and warm in 1-minute intervals. In the oven, cover with foil and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until hot throughout.

Freezing the casserole is also an option for future meals. Before baking, you can assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze it for up to 2 months. To cook, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed the next day for a stress-free dinner.

Serving Suggestions

This taco pasta casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or guacamole on the side. You can also set up a topping station with items like diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, fresh cilantro, or diced avocados for your guests to personalize their servings. It not only adds color but also an interactive element to your meal.

For a festive touch, serve it alongside tortilla chips for crunch. You can also prepare a batch of Mexican street corn to serve as a side dish. The creamy flavors of the corn complement the casserole and allow for a delightful combination of textures and tastes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

I love topping it with fresh cilantro, jalapeños, or diced tomatoes. You could also add avocado or crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch!

→ Is there a vegetarian alternative?

Yes! You can substitute the ground meat with extra beans, lentils, or a meat substitute for a delicious vegetarian option.