Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While medium shells are perfect for catching the sauce and small ingredients, any medium-sized pasta shape works well. Rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni are all excellent alternatives. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the pasta shape and thickness.

Is this recipe spicy?

This recipe has a mild to medium heat level, depending on your sensitivity. The green chilies and seasonings provide flavor more than heat. If you prefer a spicier dish, add a diced jalapeño with the seeds or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a milder version, reduce the chili powder or use mild enchilada sauce.

Can I make this ahead for meal prep?

This makes an excellent meal prep option! Prepare as directed, then portion into individual containers once cooled. The flavors actually improve after a day in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a splash of broth if it seems dry. This recipe maintains its quality well for about 4 days refrigerated.

What can I substitute for the enchilada sauce?

If you don't have enchilada sauce, you can substitute tomato sauce mixed with additional taco seasoning, or even a mild salsa. In a pinch, a can of diced tomatoes with their juice plus an extra teaspoon of chili powder will work too. Each option will create a slightly different flavor profile, but all complement the taco theme.

Taco Tuesday Skillet Recipe

Name: Taco Tuesday Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 lb (454g) 96/4 lean ground beef; 1 can diced green chilies; 1 can corn, rinsed and drained (160g); 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained (150g); 1 cup red enchilada sauce (such as Old El Paso Mild); 12 oz Barilla medium pasta shells (measured uncooked); 2 cups reduced sodium beef broth (only if cooking pasta in the skillet); 100g reduced-fat Mexican cheese blend; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp garlic powder; 2 tsp paprika; 1 tbsp chili powder; 5 tbsp cumin (adjust to taste; see notes); Fresh cracked pepper, to taste; 8-10 tbsp water (to form paste with seasonings)

This Taco Tuesday Skillet is the ultimate weeknight dinner hero! Imagine all your favorite taco flavors melded into one hearty, cheesy, utterly satisfying skillet meal. With perfectly seasoned ground beef, tender pasta shells, and a medley of Mexican-inspired ingredients, this dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for busy evenings when you want something delicious without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Weeknight Wonder: This one-pan meal comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings when time is short but you still want something homemade and delicious.
Family Favorite: The familiar taco flavors combined with pasta create a dish that appeals to everyone at the table. It’s the perfect compromise between pasta night and taco night!
Customizable: Easily adapt this recipe to suit your family’s preferences or what you have on hand. It’s forgiving and flexible.
Minimal Cleanup: Using just one skillet means less time spent washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ground Beef: The foundation of our dish, providing hearty protein. The 96/4 lean ratio gives great flavor without excessive fat.
Taco Seasoning: A delicious blend of salt, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, and cumin that gives this dish its distinctive taco flavor.
Diced Green Chilies: These add a mild, tangy heat and authentic Mexican flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Corn: Adds sweetness and texture contrast. The pop of yellow also makes the dish more visually appealing.
Black Beans: Provides additional protein, fiber, and that classic Tex-Mex element. Their creamy texture complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Red Enchilada Sauce: This sauce adds depth of flavor and helps create the perfect consistency for coating the pasta.
Medium Pasta Shells: These capture the sauce and smaller ingredients inside their shape, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Beef Broth: Forms the base of our sauce and cooks the pasta directly in the skillet if you choose that method.
Mexican Cheese: The reduced-fat version melts beautifully while keeping the dish lighter. It creates that irresistible cheesy pull when serving.
Fresh Cracked Pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth that pre-ground pepper just can’t match.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Protein Swaps

Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives for the beef to change up the flavor profile or make it lighter.

Vegetarian Version

Skip the meat altogether and double up on beans, or add in some sautéed mushrooms and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian option.

Heat Level Adjustments

Amp up the spice by adding jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or cayenne pepper. For a milder version, reduce the chili powder and cumin.

Pasta Options

Any medium-sized pasta shape works well—try rotini, penne, or even elbow macaroni if that’s what you have on hand.

How to Make Taco Tuesday Skillet

Step 1: Brown the Meat

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Season the Meat

Mix the taco seasoning ingredients together in a small bowl. Add water until it forms a smooth paste. Add this seasoning mixture to the meat and stir to coat evenly. Reduce heat to a simmer.

Step 3: Add Main Ingredients

While simmering, add corn, black beans, green chilies, and enchilada sauce to the seasoned meat. Mix well to combine all the flavors.

Step 4: Choose Your Pasta Method

Option 1 (Separate Cooking): Cook pasta according to package directions in a separate pot. Once cooked, drain and add to the meat mixture along with a splash of beef broth to create the right consistency.

Option 2 (One-Pot Method): Add uncooked pasta and beef broth directly to the meat mixture. Increase heat to a low simmer, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes until pasta reaches desired tenderness, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Serve

Once the pasta is cooked and incorporated into the mixture, add the Mexican cheese and stir until melted and well distributed. Serve hot, portioning approximately 260g per serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Seasoning Control: The recipe calls for 5 tablespoons of cumin, which creates a robust flavor. Start with 3 tablespoons if you’re unsure, and adjust to your taste preference.
Pasta Doneness: When using the one-pot method, check the pasta a few minutes before the suggested cooking time. It will continue to soften slightly as it sits in the warm sauce.
Prevent Sticking: Stir frequently when cooking the pasta directly in the skillet to prevent it from sticking to the bottom and burning.
Cheese Selection: For the best melt, shred your own cheese rather than using pre-shredded, which contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.

How to Serve

Topping Ideas

Elevate your skillet with fresh toppings like diced avocado, chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, a dollop of sour cream, or a squeeze of lime juice.

Side Dishes

Pair with a simple green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette or some warm tortilla chips for scooping.

Presentation

Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic, family-style meal, or portion into bowls topped with your favorite garnishes for a more composed presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve overnight as they meld together!

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Portion into individual containers for easy grab-and-go meals. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce, or warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat. Either way, stir occasionally for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While medium shells are perfect for catching the sauce and small ingredients, any medium-sized pasta shape works well. Rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni are all excellent alternatives. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the pasta shape and thickness.
Is this recipe spicy?

This recipe has a mild to medium heat level, depending on your sensitivity. The green chilies and seasonings provide flavor more than heat. If you prefer a spicier dish, add a diced jalapeño with the seeds or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a milder version, reduce the chili powder or use mild enchilada sauce.
Can I make this ahead for meal prep?

This makes an excellent meal prep option! Prepare as directed, then portion into individual containers once cooled. The flavors actually improve after a day in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a splash of broth if it seems dry. This recipe maintains its quality well for about 4 days refrigerated.
What can I substitute for the enchilada sauce?

If you don’t have enchilada sauce, you can substitute tomato sauce mixed with additional taco seasoning, or even a mild salsa. In a pinch, a can of diced tomatoes with their juice plus an extra teaspoon of chili powder will work too. Each option will create a slightly different flavor profile, but all complement the taco theme.

Final Thoughts

This Taco Tuesday Skillet recipe transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal that brings excitement to weeknight dinners. It’s the perfect solution when you’re craving Mexican flavors but want something a bit different from traditional tacos. With its irresistible combination of seasoned beef, tender pasta, and melty cheese, this dish is bound to become a regular in your meal rotation. Give it a try tonight – your family will be asking for seconds before you’ve even finished your first bite!