Start by adding a drizzle of olive oil to a skillet over medium heat. You will know it is hot enough when the oil shimmers slightly. This adds flavor and helps prevent the shrimp from sticking. Just be careful not to let it smoke!
Toss in the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque. This usually takes a few minutes and smells amazing! Remember, overcooking can make them tough, so keep an eye on them.
Sprinkle in the chili powder and cumin, then stir to coat the shrimp evenly. You will get a wonderful aroma wafting through the kitchen. These spices bring that taco vibe, so do not skip this step!
Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until it becomes fragrant. You will want to avoid burning it since that can give a bitter taste. Just keep stirring gently and enjoy the smell!
Pour in the diced tomatoes and let it simmer for a few minutes. The mixture should bubble lightly, and the colors will brighten. This creates a nice sauce base that complements the shrimp perfectly.
While the sauce bubbles, boil your pasta according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente, so it retains a nice bite. Do not forget to sneak a taste as it cooks, just to be sure it is not overdone!
Once the pasta is ready, drain it and add it directly to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Giving it a good stir lets all those flavors mingle together. Taking too long here can make the pasta overcooked, so be quick!
Sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the pasta and let it melt in for a couple of minutes. You will see it create a deliciously cheesy blanket over everything. Try not to munch too much before serving; it is so tempting!
Serve your shrimp taco pasta hot, and if you like, top with fresh avocado. It adds a creaminess that is hard to resist. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors, and do not worry about leftovers — they will not last long!