Cheesy Taco Pasta Bake! Easy Mexican Inspired Casserole!

ground beef

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: cooked lentils

Ground turkey reduces fat while lentils are a budget-friendly protein alternative.

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: reduced-fat cheese

💰Cheaper: processed cheese

Reduced-fat cheese lowers calories, while processed cheese is often less expensive.

sour cream

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: plain yogurt

Greek yogurt provides creaminess with fewer calories, while plain yogurt is a cost-effective substitute.

cream cheese

🥗Healthier: light cream cheese

💰Cheaper: mascarpone

Light cream cheese reduces calories, while mascarpone offers a similar texture.

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

In a large skillet, brown 1 pound of ground hamburger over low heat.

Chop and add 1/2 onion to the skillet and sauté until softened.

Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté briefly.

Stir in taco seasoning and 1 can of fire roasted diced tomatoes with green chilies.

Cook rotini pasta in boiling water until al dente, then drain.

Add 1 can of drained Southwest corn and 1 can of drained black beans to the skillet.

Pour in 1/2 cup of beef broth and let it cook down for flavor.

Mix in 8 oz of cream cheese until combined.

Add 1 pound of cooked rotini pasta and stir well.

Stir in 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese and 1 cup of cheddar cheese.

Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and top with additional cheddar cheese.

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until bubbly.

Let cool for 10 minutes before serving with avocado, sour cream, and jalapeños.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens