Taco Pasta with Fresh Jalapeno Salsa

A spicy and creamy taco pasta with seasoned ground beef, cheddar cheese, fresh salsa, and jalapeños.

This taco pasta with fresh jalapeno salsa combines seasoned ground beef with tender pasta shells, infused with homemade taco seasoning for a flavorful base. Topped with melted cheddar cheese, fresh salsa, and sliced jalapeños, each bite offers a delicious mix of spicy and creamy textures. Garnished with cilantro and a dollop of sour cream, this dish is a satisfying and vibrant meal.

Servings

2-4

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

25 minutes

Total Time

40 minutes

1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup beef broth
1 cup small shells pasta
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Sour cream
Sliced jalapeños

Taco Seasoning
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Fresh Salsa
2 ripe tomatoes, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
Salt to taste

Preparation

  • Finely chop the onion, mince the garlic, dice the tomatoes, and finely chop the red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.
  • Juice the lime.
  • In a small bowl, mix together all taco seasoning spices.
  • Shred the cheddar cheese if not pre-shredded.
  • Cook the small shells pasta according to package directions, then drain and set aside.

Cooking

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Sauté the onion until soft and translucent.
  • Add the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
  • Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it into crumbles, until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
  • Stir in the taco seasoning and cook briefly to toast the spices.
  • Pour in the beef broth and simmer to combine flavors.
  • Stir in some of the fresh tomato salsa mixture and let the sauce simmer until slightly thickened.
  • Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat evenly.
  • Sprinkle in the cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving

  • Spoon into bowls while hot.
  • Top with extra fresh salsa, chopped cilantro, sour cream, and sliced jalapeños if desired.
  • Serve immediately.