Description
One-Pot Taco Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that blends the classic taco flavors with creamy, cheesy pasta in a single pot. Using ground beef, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, pasta, and a blend of cheeses, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights requiring minimal cleanup while delivering delicious, hearty comfort food.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Pantry Items
- 2 cups short pasta (such as shells, rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Cheese and Dairy
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Heat the pot: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat in a large pot to prepare for sautéing.
- Cook onion and beef: Add diced onion and ground beef to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onion has softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain excess grease: If necessary, carefully drain off excess fat to reduce greasiness.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Season: Stir in 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning to evenly coat the beef mixture for bold taco flavor.
- Add liquids and tomatoes: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato sauce, and beef broth; stir well to combine.
- Add pasta: Stir in the uncooked short pasta, distributing it evenly in the pot.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender.
- Add cheeses: Remove the lid and stir in the cream cheese and shredded cheddar until fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Season to taste: Adjust with salt and black pepper as needed to balance the flavors.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped green onions and fresh cilantro on top. Serve hot with your favorite taco toppings.
Notes
- Use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
- Add black beans, corn, bell peppers, or jalapeños for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Cheddar cheese can be swapped for Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for different cheese profiles.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess.
- Freezing is possible but may affect texture; refrigeration is preferred.
- Toppings like avocado, sour cream, salsa, and crushed tortilla chips add wonderful texture and flavor contrast.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
