One-Pot Taco Pasta served in a bowl with toppings

One-Pot Taco Pasta

Why make this recipe

One-Pot Taco Pasta is a fantastic choice for a quick and delicious meal. It combines the flavors of tacos with the comfort of pasta, making it a family favorite. You can prepare this dish in just one pot, which means less cleanup for you! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. Plus, everyone loves cheesy pasta, and the taco seasoning adds a flavorful twist.

How to make One-Pot Taco Pasta

To start, gather your ingredients. You will need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 8 ounces pasta (e.g., penne or rotini)
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (e.g., cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Now, let’s go through the simple steps to make this dish.

Directions:

  1. In a large pot or skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Once it’s cooked, drain any excess fat.
  2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion becomes soft.
  3. Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, and beef broth.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  5. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente.
  6. Lower the heat, then stir in the shredded cheese until it melts and becomes creamy.
  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if you like.

How to serve One-Pot Taco Pasta

Serve the One-Pot Taco Pasta in bowls while it’s hot. You can add extra toppings like sour cream, jalapeños, or avocado for added flavor. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or some tortilla chips for crunch.

How to store One-Pot Taco Pasta

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Tips to make One-Pot Taco Pasta

  • For a spicier kick, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
  • You can substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative.
  • Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or corn for more nutrition and flavor.

Variation

If you want a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with a mix of beans, such as black beans or pinto beans. You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

FAQs

1. Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add more taco seasoning, include diced jalapeños, or a splash of your favorite hot sauce.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this recipe ahead of time. Just reheat it in a pot over low heat, adding a little broth or water if needed to loosen it up.

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One-Pot Taco Pasta

A quick and delicious one-pot meal that combines the flavors of tacos with pasta, perfect for busy weeknights and casual gatherings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 8 ounces pasta (e.g., penne or rotini)
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (e.g., cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Method
 

Cooking
  1. In a large pot or skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Once it’s cooked, drain any excess fat.
  2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion becomes soft.
  3. Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, and beef broth.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  5. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente.
  6. Lower the heat, then stir in the shredded cheese until it melts and becomes creamy.
  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if you like.

Notes

For a spicier kick, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. You can substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or corn for more nutrition and flavor.

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