Easy Delicious Homemade Taco Hamburger

This creamy taco hamburger helper became an instant favorite at my house after just one bite The combination of savory ground beef cheese and pasta all in a single skillet checks every weeknight dinner box and cleanup is a breeze Even on a busy night this comes together fast and packs so much flavor that it makes everyone happy

I first whipped this up during a rush of weeknight homework and practice runs It was such a hit that my family started requesting it even on weekends and now we never get tired of it

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Choose eighty percent lean for flavor and less excess grease
• Onion: Opt for yellow or white onion for a mellow savory aroma
• Beef broth: Adds depth and richness Select low sodium if desired
• Milk: Creaminess that helps bind everything together Use whole milk for best texture
• Rotini pasta: Holds sauce beautifully Twists work great for soaking up flavors
• Rotel tomatoes with chilies: Not drained to keep every bit of zest and moisture Choose original or mild depending on spice level
• Salt: Balances all the flavors Use kosher salt for a clean taste
• Chili powder: Brings classic taco flavor Choose a fresh vibrant blend
• Cumin dried cilantro black pepper and paprika: The taco essentials Always make sure your dried spices are still fragrant
• Minced garlic: Freshly minced for best punch Jarred is fine in a pinch
• Shredded cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar mixed with Monterey Jack Shred your own for best melting
• Fresh cilantro: Gives a pop of color and garden freshness Use bright green bunches with no wilt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef and Onion:

Cook the ground beef and chopped onion together over medium heat Let the beef fully brown and the onions become softened about eight minutes Stir often for even color

Drain the Grease:

Once beef is browned drain off excess grease from your skillet This step is essential for a clean finished dish and prevents it from being too oily

Season the Meat:

Sprinkle in the salt black pepper chili powder cumin dried cilantro and paprika Stir to coat the beef thoroughly Let the meat toast with the spices for another minute This unlocks deep taco flavor

Add the Garlic:

Drop in the minced garlic Stir constantly for one minute Do not let it burn This adds another layer of savoriness

Add Liquids and Pasta:

Pour in the beef broth Rotel tomatoes with juices pasta and milk Mix well so the noodles are submerged in the liquid

Simmer:

Bring everything to a gentle boil Reduce the heat to low Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for about ten minutes Halfway through give it a good stir so pasta does not stick to the bottom

Melt the Cheese:

Once the pasta has absorbed most of the liquid and is tender turn off the heat Add the shredded cheese Stir until it melts into the sauce Let it sit covered for a minute or two so the cheese gets gooey

Finish and Serve:

Ladle into bowls and sprinkle generously with fresh cilantro Add other favorite taco toppings as desired

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My favorite part of making this skillet is always the moment I add the cheese Watching it melt into the pasta feels like magic and reminds me of cooking as a kid with my grandma She would always sneak a sprinkle of cheese just for me before serving

Storage Tips

Leftovers last well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days If the pasta absorbs too much sauce just add a splash of milk and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave Freezing is not recommended as the texture of pasta can change but it is possible if needed

Ingredient Substitutions

You can easily swap in ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option Use gluten free rotini or penne if avoiding wheat For a veggie-packed twist stir in a handful of baby spinach or frozen corn with the pasta Jarred salsa can stand in if you do not have Rotel

Serving Suggestions

This skillet is delicious just as it is or you can load it up with sliced avocado a dollop of sour cream diced tomatoes or even a squeeze of lime Add crushed tortilla chips for crunch My kids like it topped with extra cheese and a little hot sauce

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Origin Story

This dish is inspired by classic boxed hamburger helper but with a Tex Mex twist Making it from scratch gives you control over the ingredients spice and quality It is been a comfort food staple for decades and always brings a nostalgic vibe to the table

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like macaroni or penne works well. Adjust cook time if needed for different shapes.

→ What can I use instead of Rotel?

Canned diced tomatoes with green chilies add similar flavor. Plain diced tomatoes work in a pinch.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add extra chili powder, cayenne, or jalapeños when sautéing. You can also use a spicier Rotel variety.

→ Can this skillet meal be made ahead?

Yes, store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth.

→ What toppings work well?

Top with fresh cilantro, sour cream, diced avocado, salsa, or crushed tortilla chips as desired.