TACO PASTA CASSEROLE (5 INGREDIENTS)

PREP TIME: 10 MINS | COOK TIME: 20 MINS | TOTAL TIME: 30 MINS | SERVINGS: 10

If you are looking for another quick and easy meal for busy weeknights, then this Taco Pasta Casserole is a must! It is made with only five ingredients and ready in under thirty minutes. This recipe is a trusted and tested recipe that stands the test of time. It is a certified crowd favourite and can be served on its own without any extras!

INGREDIENTS :

• 16 ounces pasta shells
• 2 pounds ground meat beef, chicken, and/or turkey
• 15.5 ounces salsa
• 1 ½ c. water or milk
• ½ c. shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• Optional: Add 1/2 c. cream cheese, sour cream, or half and a half for a creamier sauce
• 2 (1 ounce) packets taco seasoning (1/4 c. if using bulk taco seasoning)

DIRECTIONS :

Step 1: Following the package directions, cook the pasta. Drain when done and set aside. Or use a Dutch oven if making this into just one pot.

Step 2: Brown the meat using a dutch oven or a cast-iron skillet. Drain the excess grease when done.

Step 3: To the drained meat, add the cooked pasta. If not using a dutch oven or cast-iron skillet, just transfer everything to a casserole dish. Over the meat, sprinkle the seasoning packet, then pour the meat on top and add the salsa. Stir and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.

Step 4: Place in a 400 degrees oven and bake the casserole for approximately 18 to 22 minutes or until the cheese has melted and the sauce is bubbly.

Step 5: Remove from the oven when done and serve the casserole with your favourite toppings. Enjoy!

Notes:

• You can use milk in place of water for a creamier sauce. If desired, you can also stir in the sour cream.
• Feel free to use less pasta for more sauce. Alternately, you can another jar of salsa.

Nutrition Facts:

Serving Size: 1 cup, Amount per Serving: Calories 435, Fat 21g 32%, Saturated Fat 8g 50%, Trans Fat 1g, Polyunsaturated Fat 1g, Monounsaturated Fat 9g, Cholesterol 70mg 23%, Sodium 426mg 19%, Potassium 477mg 14%, Carbohydrates 37g 12%, Fiber 2g 8%, Sugar 3g 3%, Protein 24g 48%, Vitamin A 286IU 6%, Vitamin C 1mg 1%, Calcium 81mg 8%, Iron 3mg 17%