Zesty Taco Pasta Ring

Name: Zesty Taco Pasta Ring
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups penne pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound ground beef or turkey; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz); 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers; 1/4 cup chopped onions; 1/4 cup black olives (optional); Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: International Recipes

I can't get enough of this Zesty Taco Pasta Ring! The combination of vibrant flavors and fun presentation makes it a perfect dish for gatherings or family dinners. I love the way the pasta absorbs the zesty taco seasoning, creating a mouthwatering experience with every bite. This recipe is not only easy to whip up but also a fantastic way to enjoy a classic taco flavor in a new form. Trust me, this dish will be the star of your table!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:50:28.721Z

When I first tried making a pasta dish with taco flavors, I was skeptical about how it would turn out. I decided to play around with ingredients, using a ring mold to present it beautifully. The result was nothing short of amazing! The pasta soaks up the seasoning and creates a cohesive taste that's both zesty and comforting.

One little tip I discovered is to sprinkle cheese on top halfway through baking to achieve that perfectly melted and golden finish. It's all about the layers of flavor and that slight crunch from the baked pasta edges that makes this dish irresistible!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bold taco seasoning brings a delicious twist to your pasta.
Visually stunning presentation that impresses guests.
Quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights.

Choosing the Right Meat

When making the Zesty Taco Pasta Ring, the choice of meat can greatly influence the dish’s flavor and texture. Ground beef is a classic option, providing a rich and savory base. However, if you prefer a lighter alternative, ground turkey works beautifully while still absorbing the delicious taco seasoning. For a vegetarian option, consider using textured vegetable protein or finely chopped mushrooms, which can mimic the texture of meat while adding their own earthy depth.

Cooking the meat is crucial for achieving the best taste and texture. Ensure you break it apart well during the browning process, as this allows for even seasoning and prevents clumping. Aim for a nice golden brown color, which will enhance flavor and make the filling more appealing visually. If you're using lean meats, keep an eye on cooking times; these can brown quickly and may dry out if overcooked.

Mastering the Pasta Ring

The bundt pan or ring mold is key to achieving the signature shape of this recipe. Greasing it thoroughly is essential to ensure the pasta ring releases easily after baking. I recommend using a non-stick spray or coating with olive oil. Additionally, packing the pasta mixture tightly helps maintain the ring's structure when flipped. If you notice it collapsing slightly, simply press down more firmly as you fill the mold and add more mixture around the edges if necessary.

Another helpful tip is to let the pasta mixture cool slightly before filling the mold. This prevents the cheese from fully melting as you prepare it, ensuring it retains its shape. If you see that the outer edges start to stick or brown too much while baking, rotating the pan halfway through can help achieve even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Ring

2 cups penne pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef or turkey
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
1/4 cup chopped onions
1/4 cup black olives (optional)
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Boil the penne pasta in salted water according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Filling

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground meat, onions, and bell peppers, and cook until browned. Stir in the taco seasoning and diced tomatoes, letting it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the meat mixture and half of the cheese.

Form the Ring

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a bundt pan or ring mold, then fill it with the pasta mixture, pressing down gently. Top with the remaining cheese.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before inverting onto a serving plate.

Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and olives if desired. Slice and enjoy your zesty creation!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some diced jalapeños to the meat mixture or serve with your favorite salsa on the side.

Serving Suggestions

This Zesty Taco Pasta Ring is a great centerpiece dish that can be complemented with various sides. A simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the flavors. I also love serving it alongside sour cream and guacamole for dipping; these creamy elements smooth out the bold taco spices beautifully. You could also set out additional toppings such as jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or scallions for a customizable experience.

If you're hosting a gathering, think about serving it family-style, where guests can help themselves. This creates a fun, interactive dining experience. For an extra crunch, a sprinkle of tortilla strips over the top just before serving can add delightful texture and reinforce the taco theme.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the perks of this dish is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the pasta mixture and assemble the ring in the bundt pan a day in advance, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld and makes dinner preparation feel effortless on a busy night. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through properly.

If you have leftovers, they store well in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge. Reheating is simple—just pop individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire ring in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. If you want to extend the life of this dish, it also freezes beautifully; just slice it before freezing so you can easily grab portions later.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in any pasta shape you prefer, just make sure it's cooked al dente.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this pasta ring stores well in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat in the oven for the best texture.

→ Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ground meat with black beans or a meat substitute for a delicious vegetarian option.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It also pairs well with any taco toppings you enjoy!