Total Time: 40 minutes
## Introduction
Gordo’s Taco Pasta is not only a family delight but also a game-changer in your culinary journey. This tantalizing dish transcends the regular pasta experience by incorporating the beaming flavors of a traditional taco, giving pasta lovers an irresistible new favorite.
## Why Make This Recipe
Gordo’s Taco Pasta is the perfect meal for anyone who loves the heavenly fusion of Mexican and Italian cuisine. It’s excitingly flavorful, relatively easy to prepare, and a total crowd pleaser for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
## How to Make Gordo’s Taco Pasta
It’s time to get your hands saucy and prepare this delightful pasta dish that serves 6. The process is split into two main parts: preparing the pasta and preparing the taco-flavored beef.
## Ingredients
– 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni)
– 1 lb ground beef or turkey
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup salsa
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup sour cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro and diced avocado for garnish (optional)
## Directions
1. Cook the Pasta: Following the package instructions, cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until it reaches al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Meat: Over medium heat, cook the ground beef in a large skillet until it browns. Drain off any excess fat.
3. Season the Meat: Follow packet instructions to add taco seasoning to the beef. Stir in the diced tomatoes, salsa, corn, and black beans, then let the mixture simmer for roughly 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
4. Combine: Mix the cooked pasta into the skillet along with 1 cup of cheddar cheese and sour cream till it’s well combined.
5. Add cheese to top: Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the pasta, cover the skillet, and let it cook on low heat until the cheese melts.
6. Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and diced avocado if desired, then serve and enjoy your Gordo’s Taco Pasta!
## How to Serve Gordo’s Taco Pasta
Serve Gordo’s Taco Pasta hot from the skillet. The dish pairs perfectly with a side of garlic bread or a light green salad for a balanced meal.
## How to Store Gordo’s Taco Pasta
You can store Gordo’s Taco Pasta in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to five days. Microwave it for a couple of minutes until heated thoroughly before serving.
## Tips to Make Gordo’s Taco Pasta
– Use a large pot or deep skillet to prevent the ingredients from spilling over the edges as you stir.
– You can use any short pasta type you have on hand like fusilli or farfalle.
– Want it extra cheesy? Just add more cheese!
## Variation (if any)
Substitute the ground beef with ground chicken or shredded cooked chicken for a lighter version of the dish.
## FAQs
1. **Can I use a different type of cheese?**
Yes. While cheddar cheese is great for this recipe because it melts easily, you can experiment with other types like monterey jack or a three-cheese blend.
2. **How spicy is the dish?**
This largely depends on the type of salsa and taco seasoning you use. Pick a mild version if you are sensitive to heat or a hotter version if you love some spice.
3. **Can I use other types of pasta?**
Yes. While penne and rigatoni work great due to their size and shape, this recipe is versatile, and any pasta type can be used.