One-Pot Beef Taco Pasta (30 Minutes)

A Deliciously Easy Weeknight Meal

One-pot meals are a lifesaver on busy weeknights, and this One-Pot Beef Taco Pasta delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Combining the bold spices of a taco with creamy, cheesy pasta, this dish is the ultimate comfort food. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for quick dinners the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal cleanup – Everything cooks in one pot, reducing dishes and cleanup time.
• Quick & easy – Ready in 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
• Family-friendly – Packed with cheesy, beefy goodness that even picky eaters will enjoy.
• Customizable – Add your favorite toppings or mix-ins for a personalized touch.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 cups uncooked pasta (such as rotini or elbow macaroni)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Optional toppings: sour cream, diced avocado, jalapeños, crushed tortilla chips

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Beef

Heat a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and diced onions, cooking until softened (about 3 minutes). Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 2: Add Seasonings and Liquids

Stir in the minced garlic and taco seasoning, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Add the uncooked pasta to the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Cream

Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheeses until melted and creamy. If using, add the heavy cream for extra richness. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and let the pasta sit for a couple of minutes to thicken. Garnish with fresh cilantro and any optional toppings like sour cream, diced avocado, or crushed tortilla chips.

Variations and Substitutions

• Make it spicier – Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Use a different protein – Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Go low-carb – Replace pasta with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Make it vegetarian – Use black beans instead of beef and vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
• Cheese variations – Try pepper jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican cheese blend.

Servings and Prep Time

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently. Add a splash of broth or milk to keep it creamy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?

Yes! Whole wheat pasta works well, but may need extra cooking time. Gluten-free pasta is also a great option, though some brands may break down more easily—stir gently while cooking.

What can I serve with this dish?

This taco pasta is a complete meal, but it pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

How do I make it less spicy?

Use mild taco seasoning and skip any spicy toppings like jalapeños. Adding a dollop of sour cream can also help balance the spice.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef and onions first, then add everything (except cheese and cream) to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 3-4 hours, then stir in cheese and cream before serving.

What type of pasta works best?

Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni work best since they hold onto the sauce well.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative and still absorbs all the delicious taco flavors.

How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?

Let the pasta sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken. You can also stir in extra cheese or a bit of cornstarch slurry.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes! The cheesy, mild taco flavors are usually a hit with kids. If needed, you can reduce the seasoning for a milder taste.

Can I add beans to this recipe?

Yes! Black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans make a great addition for extra protein and fiber.

What’s the best way to make this ahead of time?

You can cook the beef and sauce in advance, then add the pasta when you’re ready to serve. This prevents the pasta from becoming too soft during storage.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Beef Taco Pasta is the perfect balance of comfort and convenience. With its rich, cheesy, and taco-seasoned goodness, it’s bound to become a go-to recipe in your meal rotation. Whether you customize it with your favorite toppings or keep it simple, this dish is a guaranteed hit for any occasion. Enjoy your easy, flavorful dinner with minimal fuss and maximum taste!

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