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Cooking the pasta to the perfect al dente texture is crucial for achieving the ideal Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet. Al dente, meaning "to the tooth" in Italian, refers to pasta that is firm to the bite. This texture not only prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when combined with other ingredients but also allows it to hold up better during the cooking process. To ensure that your macaroni achieves this texture, follow these steps:

Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet

Discover the joy of cooking with this Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet, a delightful one-skillet meal that combines the bold flavors of tacos with the comfort of pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy-to-make dish features savory ground beef or turkey, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich blend of spices and cheese. Enjoy a quick clean-up without sacrificing flavor. This recipe is designed to please every palate and make mealtime a delicious celebration.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz elbow macaroni

1 lb ground beef (or turkey)

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 packet taco seasoning

1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies

2 cups chicken broth (or beef broth)

1 cup corn (frozen or canned, drained)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Sour cream (for serving, optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large skillet, bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside in a bowl.

    Sauté the Beef: In the same skillet, add the ground beef over medium heat. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the meat is browned and fully cooked. Use a spatula to crumble the meat while cooking for even browning.

      Add the Aromatics: Incorporate the diced onion and minced garlic into the skillet with the beef. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent, enhancing the dish's flavor.

        Season the Mixture: Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the beef and onion mixture, stirring well to ensure every component is coated. Next, add the can of diced tomatoes (including the juice) and the chicken or beef broth, mixing thoroughly to combine all ingredients.

          Combine with Corn: Stir in the corn and increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld and develop.

            Add the Pasta: Carefully fold the drained elbow macaroni into the skillet, ensuring that each piece is well-coated with the flavorful taco mixture.

              Melt the Cheese: Lower the heat and sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the pasta. Stir gently until the cheeses melt and blend into a creamy mixture, making sure everything is combined.

                Season to Taste: Taste the pasta skillet for seasoning and adjust with salt and pepper as needed to kick the flavors up a notch.

                  Serve: Garnish the Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet with freshly chopped cilantro. Add a dollop of sour cream on top for an extra creamy touch, if desired. Serve hot and relish in the delightful fusion of flavors!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4-6 servings