This Taco Bake is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights. It combines savory, seasoned ground beef with tender shell pasta, creating a rich and satisfying texture that everyone loves. The dish is infused with the mild heat of green chiles and a robust taco seasoning blend, then smothered in layers of melted cheddar cheese. It 226;ÂÂs a one-dish wonder that brings together the flavors of your favorite tacos in a warm, baked format. Perfect for feeding a crowd or leftovers, this recipe requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Serve it with a side of cool sour cream, fresh salsa, or a simple green salad to balance the richness. ItâÂÂs a reliable standby for potlucks and family dinners alike.
Taco Bake
Description
This Taco Bake is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights. It combines savory, seasoned ground beef with tender shell pasta, creating a rich and satisfying texture that everyone loves. The dish is infused with the mild heat of green chiles and a robust taco seasoning blend, then smothered in layers of melted cheddar cheese. It&# 226;ÂÂs a one-dish wonder that brings together the flavors of your favorite tacos in a warm, baked format. Perfect for feeding a crowd or leftovers, this recipe requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Serve it with a side of cool sour cream, fresh salsa, or a simple green salad to balance the richness. ItâÂÂs a reliable standby for potlucks and family dinners alike.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
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Cook shell pasta according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, brown ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until beef is no longer pink; drain excess fat.
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Stir in water, taco seasoning mix, and tomato sauce; bring to a boil.
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Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens slightly.
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Remove from heat and stir in cooked pasta, green chiles, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
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Pour mixture into a greased 1 1/2 quart baking dish.
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Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
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Bake for 30 minutes, or until heated through and cheese is bubbly and golden.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 346.9kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 19.2g30%
- Saturated Fat 7.1g36%
- Cholesterol 88.5mg30%
- Sodium 2207.7mg92%
- Total Carbohydrate 8.7g3%
- Dietary Fiber 1.5g6%
- Sugars 2.1g
- Protein 30.8g62%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: Cover and refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot.
Variations: Add black beans, corn, or diced bell peppers for extra texture and nutrition. Top with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa after baking.
Tip: If the bake seems dry before going into the oven, add a splash of milk or extra tomato sauce to the mixture.
Ingredient Note: "Shell pasta" refers to conchiglie or similar shell-shaped noodles. Regular elbow macaroni works as a substitute.