Sizzling Spicy Taco Pasta Squares

Name: Sizzling Spicy Taco Pasta Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 1 lb ground beef or turkey; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1/2 cup chopped green onions; Sour cream; Fresh cilantro; Diced avocado; Chopped jalapeños

Highlighted under: Around World Recipes

I'm always on the lookout for easy, flavorful meals, and these Sizzling Spicy Taco Pasta Squares have quickly become one of my favorites. They combine the hearty goodness of pasta with the kick of taco spices, creating a dish that satisfies my cravings without taking too much time in the kitchen. Plus, they’re fun to serve at gatherings or enjoy on a weeknight. I love how you can customize the toppings to suit any taste, making it a hit for everyone at the table.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:18:28.545Z

The first time I made these Sizzling Spicy Taco Pasta Squares, I was amazed at how quickly they came together. The combination of pasta and taco seasoning is genius, and the bubbling cheese on top was the perfect finishing touch. I recommend using a blend of cheeses for extra flavor. The whole family loved it, and it made fantastic leftovers!

One key tip I learned was to not overcook the pasta before mixing it with the other ingredients. This way, it can absorb the flavors better as it bakes, ensuring every bite is packed with taste. It’s an easy recipe to whip up, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A zesty flavor explosion that captivates the senses
Cheesy goodness with a satisfying crunch from the pasta
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights

Perfecting Your Pasta

When cooking the penne pasta, be sure to taste it just before the suggested cooking time on the package. This ensures that the pasta is al dente, or firm to the bite, which is crucial for maintaining texture when combined with the meat and cheese. If overcooked, the pasta may turn mushy during baking. Remember, it'll continue to cook slightly as it bakes, so slight undercooking is ideal.

Using salted water not only enhances the flavor of the pasta but also boosts the overall taste of the final dish. For a twist, consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or garlic to the boiling water to infuse more flavor into the pasta before it even meets the other ingredients.

Choosing Your Meats and Cheeses

Ground beef and turkey are both excellent choices for this recipe, offering different flavor profiles. However, if you're looking for a leaner option, consider using ground chicken or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian dish. A rich flavor can be achieved by browning the meat well—look for a deep, golden color as this adds a wonderful depth to the overall flavor of the dish.

The blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses creates a delightful gooey texture. If you're a cheese aficionado, feel free to experiment with different types like Pepper Jack for extra spice, or even queso fresco for a milder, crumblier topping after baking.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

These Sizzling Spicy Taco Pasta Squares can be a fantastic sharing dish. Cut them into squares for serving, and pair with a fresh side salad or chips and salsa for extra crunch. For gatherings, setting up a taco bar with optional toppings like sour cream, diced avocados, or jalapeños will let guests customize their plates.

If you have leftovers, they store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up, or place in an oven-safe dish, covering with foil, and reheat at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions, ensuring they're well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta
1 lb ground beef or turkey
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/2 cup chopped green onions

Optional Toppings

Sour cream
Fresh cilantro
Diced avocado
Chopped jalapeños

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Meat

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

Combine Ingredients

Add the taco seasoning and diced tomatoes to the meat, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Mix and Layer

In a baking dish, combine the cooked pasta with the meat mixture. Spread evenly, then top with both cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pasta squares for 20 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Serve

Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes, then garnish with chopped green onions and any optional toppings you desire before serving.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add black beans or corn to the mixture for extra texture and nutrition. Additionally, you can switch up the proteins by using shredded chicken or even plant-based meat alternatives.

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe is versatile when it comes to ingredients. If you're avoiding gluten, substitute the penne pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta variety; just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions. For those looking to lighten up the dish, replace half the cheese with a reduced-fat version without sacrificing too much flavor.

For a vegan twist, use lentils or chickpeas in place of meat and swap cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or homemade cashew cream, which can provide a rich, creamy texture without dairy.

Refrigeration and Reheating Tips

To maintain the texture of the Sizzling Spicy Taco Pasta Squares, refrigerate them in a tightly sealed container. If possible, separate the meat sauce from the pasta and cheese before storing, as this can help retain the pasta's firmness. Reheating in portions is advisable, as it ensures even warming and avoids overcooking.

When reheating, a splash of broth can help revive the dish, preventing it from drying out in the oven or microwave. Just add a tablespoon or so while warming in a covered dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the pasta and meat mixture beforehand, assemble, and refrigerate it. Just be sure to bake it right before serving.

→ Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the meat for black beans or lentils and use vegetarian cheese for a delicious and filling dish.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

→ Can I freeze these pasta squares?

Yes! Allow them to cool completely, then freeze in individual portions. Reheat directly from frozen, adding a bit of extra time to ensure it's heated through.