Description
Overnight Taco Pasta is a delicious and easy-to-make casserole combining seasoned ground beef, pasta, salsa, and cheese. Prepared the night before, this dish allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or family meal that requires minimal effort on the day of serving.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning (1 oz)
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (10 oz)
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 cups beef broth
- 8 ounces uncooked rotini pasta
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily.
- Add Seasonings and Liquids: Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, salsa, and beef broth. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer to blend the flavors, then remove from heat.
- Mix in the Pasta: Stir the uncooked rotini pasta into the mixture until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and seasonings.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Transfer the entire mixture to a large baking dish or airtight container. Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight to let the flavors develop fully.
- Preheat Oven: The next day, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake Covered: Stir the pasta mixture and cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake for 30 minutes to allow the pasta to cook thoroughly.
- Add Cheese and Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the pasta is tender.
- Finish and Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly after baking. Stir in the sour cream to add creaminess, then sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a leaner option.
- For extra spice, use hot salsa or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- This dish reheats well and can be made up to 2 days in advance, making it convenient for meal prep.
