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The Quick Turkey Taco Pasta Bake is a delightful fusion of flavors that combines the beloved elements of tacos with the comforting heartiness of pasta. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutritious ingredients, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. In this blog post, we will explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and the appeal of this delicious recipe, ensuring that you feel confident in recreating it in your own kitchen.

Quick Turkey Taco Pasta Bake

Discover the Quick Turkey Taco Pasta Bake, where taco flavors meet hearty pasta for a delightful dish perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This recipe combines ground turkey, shell pasta, black beans, tomatoes, salsa, and cheese for a nutritious and satisfying meal. With simple preparation steps and tasty results, it’s a family favorite that everyone will love. Ideal for meal prep, enjoy this comforting bake throughout the week!
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Ingredients
  

8 ounces large shell pasta

1 pound ground turkey

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 packet taco seasoning mix (about 1 ounce)

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

1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained

1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)

1 cup salsa

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup sour cream

Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it's ready for baking once your dish is assembled.

    Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the large shell pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain the pasta and set it aside, allowing it to cool slightly.

      Sauté Turkey Mixture: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and ground turkey. Cook, breaking the turkey apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and no longer pink in the center, roughly 6-8 minutes. If there's excess fat, drain it off.

        Add Seasonings: Into the turkey mixture, stir in the taco seasoning, black beans, undrained diced tomatoes, corn, and salsa. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.

          Combine with Pasta: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shell pasta with the turkey mixture and the sour cream. Gently fold to combine, ensuring that the pasta is well-coated with the saucy mixture.

            Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil. Pour the pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Top it off by sprinkling the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the entire surface.

              Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges.

                Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. For added freshness, sprinkle with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve hot, ensuring each portion has a delicious cheesy topping.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 6 servings