Description
This Taco Noodle Skillet is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal combining seasoned ground meat, bell peppers, corn, and wide egg noodles, all simmered together with creamy cheddar and garden vegetable cream cheese. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for a comforting and easy weeknight dinner that brings a delicious Tex-Mex twist to classic pasta dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Seasoning
- 1 pound lean ground beef or ground chicken
- 2 Tablespoons dried minced onion
- 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
- 3/4 cup water
Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
- 1 can (4 ounces) sliced black olives, drained
Dairy and Pasta
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 container (8 ounces) garden vegetable cream cheese
- 8 ounces No Yolks® extra broad noodles
Instructions
- Cook the Meat and Vegetables: In a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, crumble and cook the ground beef (or ground chicken) thoroughly until no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease to keep the dish lean. Stir in the dried minced onion, taco seasoning, water, chopped red bell pepper, and drained corn. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Stir occasionally and cook for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Noodles: While the meat mixture simmers, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the No Yolks extra broad noodles and cook following the package instructions until tender. Drain the noodles well to remove all water.
- Add Cheese and Combine: To the skillet with the meat and vegetable mixture, add the shredded cheddar cheese and the container of garden vegetable cream cheese. Stir continuously over low heat until all the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Gently fold in the sliced black olives and the drained noodles, mixing just until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Serve Warm: Spoon the taco noodle skillet into bowls or plates and serve immediately while warm. This savory and comforting skillet pairs well with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- Ground chicken can be substituted for ground beef for a leaner protein option.
- Adjust the spice level by using mild or hot taco seasoning according to your taste preference.
- For gluten-free version, substitute the No Yolks noodles with gluten-free pasta.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave to maintain creamy texture.
