Go Back
Comfort food has a unique way of bringing people together, often serving as the centerpiece of family gatherings and casual dinners. Whether it's a rainy Sunday afternoon or a busy weeknight, heartwarming dishes have a special place in our hearts and on our tables. Among the many delightful options, the Cheesy Ground Beef Nacho Pasta Bake stands out as a perfect amalgamation of two beloved favorites: nachos and pasta. This recipe not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers a satisfying, hearty meal that everyone will love.

Cheesy Ground Beef Nacho Pasta Bake

Indulge in the warmth of home-cooked comfort with Cheesy Ground Beef Nacho Pasta Bake. This delightful recipe combines the classic tastes of nachos with hearty pasta, creating a dish everyone will love. Layer seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, and colorful toppings for a satisfying meal. Quick to prepare, it's perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Explore variations to fit your tastes and enjoy the rich flavors and textures that make this dish a true crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) ground beef

12 oz (340g) elbow macaroni

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies

1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning

1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

1 cup sour cream

1/2 cup salsa

1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)

Jalapeño slices (optional, for garnish)

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it's ready for baking when your dish is prepared.

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until it's al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later use.

      Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until it's browned and fully cooked, stirring occasionally and breaking it apart with a spatula. If there’s excess fat, drain it off.

        Mix in Seasoning and Veggies: Once the beef is fully cooked, add the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, corn, and black beans to the skillet. Stir the mixture well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

          Combine Pasta and Beef Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the beef mixture, sour cream, and half of each of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Gently toss everything together until well combined, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated.

            Assemble the Bake: Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish and transfer the pasta mixture into it. Spread it out evenly across the dish, and then top with the remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses for that gooey, cheesy layer.

              Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and has a slightly golden color on top.

                Garnish: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then garnish with chopped green onions and optional jalapeño slices for an extra kick.

                  Serve: Scoop out generous portions of your cheesy ground beef nacho pasta bake and serve warm, savoring every cheesy bite!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 45 min | 6-8 servings