Name: One-Pot Taco Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup uncooked pasta; 1 cup taco seasoning; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 0.5 cup water

What is that one thing that has completely revolutionized dinnertime? What is Taco Pasta? What are some of the best boxed mac and cheese recipes? Is this the healthier version? It’s got all the comforting creaminess of pasta, the zesty kick of tacos, and the pure, smooth, creamy texture of a tomato. Unadulterated joy of a meal that comes together in 30 minutes. If you’re anything like me and sometimes stare blankly into the fridge at 6 pm wondering how you are doing? I’m going to feed everyone, this one’s about to become your new best friend. Is it possible to beat out my famous Spaghetti Recipe?

What is one-pot taco pasta?

Think of it as a fiesta in the pot, or mac and cheese that actually nourishes you! What’s essentially combining the best parts of two iconic dishes into one incredibly satisfying meal? What are some good ways to cook everything – pasta, Ground Beef, or even lentils! What is a baked pasta? No pre-cooking, no draining and no extra dishes. It’s pure, unadulterated weeknight dinner bliss. Perfectly cooked pasta coated in a rich, flavorful taco sauce, with all the fixings you love piled high. I know some kids will be begging for more, but trust me, they will.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Where do I start? What are some of the best reasons to eat One-Pot Taco Pasta?

Flavor explosion: WhatIs this taco pasta? What is that smoky, spicy, savory flavor that makes you want to keep eating it even when you’re hungry? The combination of taco seasoning, fire-roasted tomatoes, and cheese creates this incredible depth of flavor. I always add a little extra chili powder. I like spicy things!
Ridiculously easyI mean, the name says it all, right? One pot! Minimal chopping, minimal stirring, minimum effort. What is a great dump-and-go recipe for sexy weeknights?
Budget friendlyIs ground beef cheap? Pasta is cheap as chips, and the rest of the ingredients are pantry staples. How do I feed a family of four for under $15?
Super versatile: aThis recipe is a blank canvas! What are some ways to substitute ground beef for chicken? Add veggies – corn, black beans, bell peppers – the possibilities are endless. Can you adjust the spice level to your liking?

What I love about this one-pot Taco Pasta is that it’s a crowd-pleaser. What is a good way to sneak in some extra veggies? What is the best one-pot meal? What are some of the best weeknight dinner ideas? Is it easier to make than pasta? If you like this, you might also enjoy my creamy tomato pasta, or maybe even a good old fashioned. What is an en

How do I make Taco Pasta?

Quick Overview

What is a one-pot Taco Pasta? What is the recipe for Ground Beef tacos? What is the best way to cook pasta? What’s for dinner? Stir in some cheese. The beauty of this method is that the pasta absorbs all the flavors as it cooks, resulting in a creamy texture. What are some of the best recipes for a creamy and flavorful dish? Is it really that easy?

Ingredients

For the Main Event: What is the best way to

1 pound ground beef (or turkey, chicken, or 1 can of lentils, drained and rinsed) – I usually use it. Is 80/20 ground beef good for flavor? If you use lentils, add them after the pasta is cooked through.
1 medium onion, chopped – I prefer yellow onion but white onion will work in a pinch.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is always best, but 1 teaspoon of garlic powder will do.
1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel) – This adds a nice kick, but you can also make them yourself. If you prefer a milder flavor, use regular diced tomatoes.
What is the best tomato sauce with no added sugar?
2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth or vegetable broth) – Low-sodium is best, so you can control the amount of sodium.
1 pound pasta (such as rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni) – I prefer rote because it holds the pasta. Can you make a short pasta shape?
1 packet taco seasoning (about 2 tablespoons) – You can use store-bought or make your own (see recipe below).
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend) – I like to use a sharp cheddar for extra flavor.
Salt and pepper to taste.

Taco Toppings: Optional

Sour cream
What is shredded lettuce
Diced tomatoes
Avocado
Salsa
Chopped cilantro: What

How do I follow step

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown ground beef over medium-high heat. I always use a wooden spoon to break up beef into small pieces. Drain off any excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. The onions should be translucent and fragrant. This step is crucial for building flavor.

Step 3: Add the Good Stuff

Stir in the diced tomatoes and green chilies, tomato sauce, beef broth, pasta, and taco seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a good stir to make sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.

Step 4: Simmer and Cook

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. The exact cooking time will depend on the type of pasta you use. I check the pasta after 15 minutes, then every few minutes after that, until it’s done.

Step 5: Cheese Please!

Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Where does magic happen? The cheese creates this cheesy sauce that coats every strand of pasta. I’ve tried this with a little bit of cream cheese for extra richness…yum!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately, topped with your favorite taco topping. I like to set out a toppings bar so everyone can customize their own bowls. Sour cream, lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, salsa, and cilantro are all great options.

What is the best way to serve it?

What is a good one-pot Taco Pasta recipe? What are some serving suggestions?

What is a good casual weeknight dinner?Serve with tortilla chips and salsa, or a simple green salad.
For a potluck or party:Bring a big pot of this to your next gathering. It’s always gonna be hit! Serve with a toppings bar so everyone can customize their own bowls.
For a Cinco de Mayo celebration: Pair it with some margaritas and Mexican street corn for a festive feast.
For lunch the next day: This One-Pot Taco Pasta is even better the next day! The flavors meld together and the pasta soaks up even more of the sauce.

My family loves to add a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro to their bowls. Sometimes, I’ll even add a little bit of crumbled tortilla chips for extra crunch. Honestly, there are no rules! Just have fun and enjoy!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your One-Pot Taco Pasta

Okay, so this recipe is pretty foolproof, but here are a few tips to help you make it even better:

Don’t overcook the pasta: Nobody likes mushy pasta! Be sure to check the pasta frequently as it cooks, and remove the pot from the heat as soon as it’s al dente. It will continue to cook a bit from the residual heat.
Use the right amount of liquid: Too much liquid and your pasta will be soupy. Too little liquid and your pasta will be dry and sticky. The key is to use just enough liquid to cover the pasta. If you find that the pasta is absorbing the liquid too quickly, add a little more broth, a half cup at a time.
Don’t skip the cheese: The cheese is what makes this dish so creamy and delicious! I like to use a sharp cheddar for extra flavor, but you can use any kind of cheese you like. Mexican blend, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack would all be great.
Customize the toppings: The toppings are what make this dish your own! Don’t be afraid to get creative. Sour cream, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado, salsa, chopped cilantro, crumbled tortilla chips…the possibilities are endless!
Make it your own: This recipe is just a starting point. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own signature One-Pot Taco Pasta. Try adding different veggies, different cheeses, or even different spices. The possibilities are endless!

I learned early on to not skimp on the taco seasoning. It really makes the flavor pop. Also, I once tried using whole wheat pasta and while it was healthier, it took longer to cook and the texture wasn’t quite as good. Regular pasta is definitely the way to go for the best results.

Storing and Reheating Tips

This One-Pot Taco Pasta is great for meal prepping because it stores and reheats well.

Room Temperature: I don’t recommend leaving it at room temperature for more than two hours, as bacteria can start to grow.
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Glaze Timing Advice: Since there isn’t really a glaze, just make sure your toppings are added fresh when serving!

To reheat, simply microwave it for a few minutes, or heat it up in a pot on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of broth if it seems dry. I always add a little extra cheese when reheating, because why not?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free pasta. There are tons of great gluten-free pasta options available these days. I’ve had good luck with brown rice pasta and quinoa pasta. Just be sure to check the cooking time, as gluten-free pasta often cooks differently than regular pasta.

Do I need to drain the diced tomatoes?

Nope, don’t drain them! The liquid from the diced tomatoes adds flavor and helps to cook the pasta.

Can I use different types of beans?

Sure! Black beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans would all be delicious in this dish.

How can I make this spicier?

If you like things spicy, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or some chopped jalapeños to the pot. You can also use a spicier taco seasoning.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

I haven’t tried making this in a slow cooker, but I think it would work! Just brown the ground beef first, then add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. Stir in the cheese before serving.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it: my go-to One-Pot Taco Pasta recipe. It’s quick, easy, delicious, and perfect for busy weeknights. I truly believe this will become a staple in your household, just like it has in mine. If you’re looking for more easy and delicious dinner recipes, be sure to check out my other blog posts. I’ve got everything from quick skillet meals to comforting casseroles. And if you try this recipe, be sure to leave a comment below and let me know what you think! I love hearing your feedback and seeing your creations. Happy cooking!

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