Halloween Taco Pasta Orange Cheddar (Print)

Seasoned beef, vibrant veggies, cheddar, and taco spices create a festive, satisfying dish for spooky celebrations.

# Components:

→ Pasta

01 - 12 ounces rotini or fusilli pasta

→ Proteins

02 - 1 pound ground beef

→ Vegetables

03 - 1 cup diced orange bell pepper
04 - 1 small red onion, diced
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 cup drained and rinsed black beans
07 - 1 cup corn kernels

→ Seasonings

08 - 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
09 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
10 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
11 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Liquids

12 - 1 cup tomato sauce
13 - 1/3 cup water

→ Cheese

14 - 2 cups shredded orange cheddar cheese
15 - 1/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

→ Garnishes (Optional)

16 - Sliced black olives
17 - Chopped fresh cilantro
18 - Sliced jalapeños
19 - Sour cream

# Directions:

01 - Boil rotini or fusilli pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Use Halloween-themed shapes for added festivity.
02 - In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, for 4-5 minutes.
03 - Add diced red onion, orange bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until vegetables soften.
04 - Stir in taco seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
05 - Pour in tomato sauce and water. Bring to a simmer. Add black beans and corn, then cook for 3-4 minutes until the mixture slightly thickens.
06 - Reduce heat to low. Stir in the drained pasta and 1 1/2 cups of shredded orange cheddar cheese. Mix until cheese is melted and ingredients are well combined.
07 - Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and mozzarella (if using) over the top. Cover the skillet and let stand for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and melted.
08 - Garnish with your desired toppings such as sliced black olives, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream. Serve hot.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 40 minutes from start to finish
  • Uses everyday pantry staples you likely already have
  • Kid approved but sophisticated enough for adults
  • Perfect make ahead option for busy Halloween nights
02 -
  • Perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day
  • Freezes beautifully for up to 3 months
  • Excellent way to sneak vegetables into a kid friendly meal
  • Can be assembled ahead and baked just before serving
03 -
  • Always reserve some pasta water before draining to adjust sauce consistency if needed
  • For maximum cheese meltability shred your own rather than using pre shredded
  • Toast the taco seasoning with the meat for enhanced flavor

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