Spicy Taco Pasta Skillet

Name: Spicy Taco Pasta Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz rotini or spaghetti pasta; 1 lb ground beef or turkey; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz); 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn kernels, frozen or canned; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Global Meals

When I crave a quick and satisfying meal, I often turn to my Spicy Taco Pasta Skillet. This dish combines the bold flavors of taco seasoning with the comforting texture of pasta, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip up a deliciously spicy one-pan meal that my whole family enjoys. It’s also versatile, allowing us to customize the toppings according to our preferences. Just give it a try, and I assure you will be coming back for seconds!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-01T20:57:08.355Z

What I love about my Spicy Taco Pasta Skillet is how the flavors meld beautifully in just one pan. When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how quickly the spices and ingredients came together to create a hearty, flavorful dish. I often add black beans for extra protein and to enhance the texture.

One tip I want to share is to cook the pasta al dente; it will soak up the sauce nicely without getting mushy. My family enjoys garnishing their bowls with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime, which elevates the dish even more!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bold and zesty flavors combined with pasta
Everything cooks in one pan for easy cleanup
Customizable toppings to suit everyone’s taste
Quick preparation with minimal ingredients

The Perfect Pasta Choice

When it comes to this Spicy Taco Pasta Skillet, the choice of pasta can significantly impact the dish's overall texture and flavor. I recommend using rotini or spaghetti; rotini’s twisted shape allows it to grasp the sauce and tiny bits of black beans and corn, making each bite flavorful. Spaghetti offers a classic feel, yet could slide off the other ingredients if stirred improperly. Whichever you choose, ensure to cook it until al dente, as this will keep the pasta firm even after it absorbs some of the sauce.

Another key aspect of the pasta is its cooking time. Always follow the package instructions for al dente preparation, usually boiling around 8 to 10 minutes depending on the brand. This will provide enough bite against the softer elements of the dish. Have a taste test a minute or two before the time is up; nobody wants mushy pasta in such a lively recipe!

Understanding Taco Seasoning

Taco seasoning is not just a flavorful addition; it’s critical for building the profile of this dish. Transferable yet unique, you can use store-bought mixes or whip up your own using chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. This spicy mix is essential for giving the dish its characteristic warmth. The right balance of spices can elevate the overall taste, but make sure to taste as you cook, adjusting the spice level to suit your family’s palate. If you have a particular spice sensitivity, consider using less or a milder substitute.

Adding the seasoning to meat, along with tomatoes and broth, allows for flavor absorption that permeates the entire skillet. Simmering these ingredients for about 5 minutes helps meld the flavors. Look for the sauce to thicken slightly before adding pasta. This technique ensures that each noodle is coated with that savory taco flavor, making it a coherent meal rather than separate components.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

8 oz rotini or spaghetti pasta
1 lb ground beef or turkey
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn kernels, frozen or canned
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large skillet, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Brown the Meat

In the same skillet, add the ground meat and cook over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.

Add Seasoning and Veggies

Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, black beans, and corn. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.

Combine and Melt Cheese

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Mix everything well and top with shredded cheese. Cover and let it melt for about 3-5 minutes.

Serve

Serve hot with your favorite toppings like cilantro, avocado, and lime.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try using sautéed onions and bell peppers when browning the meat. You can also substitute the ground meat for a plant-based option to make it vegetarian.

Customizing Your Skillet

One of the best parts of the Spicy Taco Pasta Skillet is its versatility. Feel free to swap out black beans for pinto beans or even lentils for a protein-packed vegetarian version. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrients and color. Just sauté them along with the ground meat until they’re tender. If someone in your family doesn’t enjoy corn, you can easily leave that out or substitute it with diced tomatoes or even guacamole as a topping.

For cheese lovers, mixing different types of cheese can add depth to the dish. While cheddar and Mexican blends work splendidly, consider using pepper jack for an extra kick or crumbled feta for a twist. Just sprinkle it on top and let it melt while covered. Each variation can create a new experience, keeping the weeknight dinner exciting.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This meal is perfect for meal prepping! You can easily make a double batch and store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will intensify as they sit, making for even better reheating outcomes. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to avoid drying out the pasta. Warm it on medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until it's heated through.

If you’re looking to freeze, this dish can be frozen safely as well. Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. Don’t forget to add fresh toppings like cilantro or avocado after reheating for that fresh touch!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes! Gluten-free pasta works great in this recipe; just adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to intensify the spice level.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it earlier in the day and reheat before serving. It holds up well!

→ What toppings do you recommend?

I love to top it with freshly chopped cilantro, avocado, lime wedges, and a dollop of sour cream.