Zesty Mexican Taco Pasta Dish

Name: Zesty Mexican Taco Pasta Dish
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz. penne pasta; 1 lb. ground beef; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp taco seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen); 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; Juice of 1 lime; Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Highlighted under: World Cuisine

I’ve always loved the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine, and this Zesty Mexican Taco Pasta Dish is my ultimate go-to for a quick and satisfying meal. Combining al dente pasta with seasoned ground beef and fresh veggies, it bursts with zest thanks to the lime and cilantro. This dish comes together in just a few minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something flavorful but don’t have time to spend hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2026-02-02T17:58:28.244Z

When experimenting with different pasta dishes, I often find inspiration in my favorite cuisines. One day, I decided to merge the bold, zesty flavors of Mexican food with a classic pasta recipe. The result was this delightful Taco Pasta Dish that the whole family adores. The secret is in the seasoning—you can adjust the chili powder and cumin to suit your heat preference.

What I love most about this dish is its versatility. You can load it up with your favorite toppings like avocado, cheese, or sour cream, or keep it simple for a lighter option. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate veggies into your meal without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy the process, and I promise you'll create a dish that’s both comforting and refreshing!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Vibrant and zesty flavors that awaken your taste buds
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights
A fun twist on traditional tacos, served in a delightful pasta form

Why This Dish Stands Out

The Zesty Mexican Taco Pasta Dish uniquely marries the robust flavors of traditional tacos with the comforting texture of pasta. By cooking the penne al dente, you achieve a delightful chew that complements the hearty beef and fresh vegetables. This texture not only elevates the dish but also ensures it holds up well against the juicy toppings and zesty lime dressing, creating a satisfying bite every time.

Using taco seasoning in this recipe infuses the ground beef with spices that evoke the spirit of Mexican cuisine. Typically made up of chili powder, cumin, and garlic, this blend brings depth and warmth to the dish without requiring a multitude of spices. It ensures that even novice cooks can achieve a robust flavor profile without extensive knowledge of seasoning.

Ingredient Insights

Fresh ingredients greatly enhance the overall taste of this dish. While canned corn and black beans are convenient options, using fresh corn cuts right off the cob adds a sweet crunch that elevates the texture. Similarly, ripe cherry tomatoes offer juiciness and brightness that canned varieties may lack. If fresh ingredients are unavailable, frozen options are a suitable substitute; just be sure to thaw and drain them properly to avoid excess moisture in your dish.

Lime juice is a key player in the flavor balance of this pasta. It not only enhances the brightness of the other ingredients but also helps cut through the richness of the beef. If you're out of limes, freshly squeezed lemon can work in a pinch, but I recommend sticking with lime for that distinct zesty punch.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz. penne pasta
1 lb. ground beef
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp taco seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Juice of 1 lime
Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

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

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until they are soft. Add the minced garlic and ground beef, stirring until the beef is browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Seasoning and Veggies

Sprinkle taco seasoning over the beef mixture and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add in corn, black beans, and cherry tomatoes, mixing everything well.

Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring in lime juice and fresh cilantro. Toss to combine and heat through for about 2-3 minutes.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with additional cilantro and preferred toppings. Enjoy your zesty meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the toppings or add more veggies according to your preference. You can also use leftover grilled chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter option.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing this dish ahead of time is entirely possible. You can cook the beef and vegetable mixture and store it separately in an airtight container. Reheating it in a skillet or microwave ensures the flavors meld as it warms. I find that allowing it to sit for a few hours or overnight in the fridge enhances the flavor. Just cook the pasta fresh when you are ready to serve for optimal texture.

If you plan on making it a day ahead, you might want to slightly undercook the pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy when reheated. Combine everything for the final minutes on the stovetop, stirring to incorporate the lime juice and cilantro just before serving, to keep that freshness alive.

Serving Suggestions

This Zesty Mexican Taco Pasta Dish can be customized with various toppings to please different tastes. I highly recommend serving it with avocado slices, a dollop of sour cream, or even crumbled queso fresco for extra creaminess. If you enjoy a bit of heat, adding sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce can make your meal unforgettable.

For a complete meal, pair it with a simple side salad of mixed greens or a corn salsa. The vibrant flavors of the salad can balance out the richness of the pasta, making it a well-rounded dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute like textured vegetable protein.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the Taco Pasta Dish. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

I love adding avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, or jalapeños for extra kick. Fresh lime wedges on the side also enhance the flavor!