Taco Pasta Comforting Dish for Any Meal

Ingredients

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• to taste salt and pepper
• as desired optional toppings: sour cream, diced avocado, jalapeños

Instructions

1. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
4. Stir in the taco seasoning, ensuring the meat is evenly coated. Add a splash of water (about 1/4 cup) to help the seasoning blend into the meat. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until everything is heated through.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and fold everything together until well combined. Sprinkle in shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
7. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.