Quick Beef Taco Pasta (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Base Ingredients

01 - 1 pound (450g) ground beef
02 - 8 ounces (225g) pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
03 - 2 tablespoons taco seasoning

→ Liquids & Sauces

04 - 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
05 - 1 cup tomato sauce
06 - 2 cups beef broth or water
07 - 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)

→ Add-ins

08 - 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
09 - 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
10 - ½ cup black beans (optional)
11 - ½ cup corn kernels (optional)
12 - ¼ cup jalapeños or diced bell peppers (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Heat a large pot over medium heat. Optional: add olive oil and minced garlic. Cook ground beef until browned, breaking into crumbles. Drain excess grease if needed.
02 - Sprinkle taco seasoning over the browned beef and stir well to coat the meat evenly.
03 - Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add the uncooked pasta, making sure it's covered by liquid.
04 - Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta is tender.
05 - Stir in shredded cheese until melted. Top with optional garnishes like cilantro or sour cream and serve hot.

# Notes:

01 - Can customize with your choice of pasta shapes
02 - Add black beans and corn for extra texture and nutrition
03 - Adjust spiciness by using mild or hot taco seasoning