One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting combination of tacos and pasta, all wrapped up in one cheesy, flavor-packed dish. This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta is a weeknight hero, bringing together tender ground beef, zesty taco seasoning, and perfectly cooked pasta in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Best of all, everything cooks in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze!

I first discovered this recipe on a night when I was craving tacos but had a half-empty box of pasta to use up. The result? A dish that quickly became a family favorite, packed with bold flavors and easy enough to whip up on a busy evening.

Why You'll Love This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta

Get ready to add this dish to your regular dinner rotation! This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta checks all the boxes for a quick, easy, and satisfying meal.

First, it's incredibly easy to make. With everything cooking in one pot, you'll save time on prep and cleanup. Perfect for those hectic nights when you need dinner on the table fast!

It's also budget-friendly. Ground beef, pasta, and pantry staples come together to create a meal that won't break the bank while still delivering big, bold flavors.

And let’s not forget the versatility. Want to make it spicier? Add some diced jalapeños. Looking for extra veggies? Toss in some bell peppers or corn. This dish is easy to customize to your taste.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this One Pot Beef Taco Pasta lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in making this dish a standout.

Ground beef is the star of the show, providing a rich and hearty base. I recommend using 85/15 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and texture. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey works just as well!

Taco seasoning gives the dish its signature bold, smoky, and slightly spicy kick. You can use a store-bought packet or make your own blend with chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder.

Pasta soaks up all the delicious flavors as it cooks. Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or shells work best, as they hold onto the sauce beautifully.

Diced tomatoes with green chilies add a tangy, slightly spicy element that brightens up the dish. If you prefer a milder version, you can use plain diced tomatoes instead.

Cheese is the finishing touch that makes everything irresistibly creamy. A mix of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack melts into the pasta, creating a luscious, gooey sauce.

How To Make This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta

Making this One Pot Beef Taco Pasta couldn't be easier. Follow these steps for a foolproof, flavor-packed meal.

Start by heating a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease if necessary.

Next, sprinkle in the taco seasoning and stir to coat the beef evenly. Let it cook for about a minute to toast the spices, which deepens their flavor.

Pour in the diced tomatoes with green chilies and beef broth, then add the uncooked pasta. Stir everything together, making sure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

Cover and let it cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. If it looks a little dry before the pasta is fully cooked, add a splash of water or broth as needed.

Once the pasta is perfectly al dente, stir in the shredded cheese, letting it melt into the sauce. The result should be a creamy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible taco pasta.

Storage Options

This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta makes fantastic leftovers! Store any remaining pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When you're ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, simply warm the pasta on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen up the sauce. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few fun ways to switch things up!

If you're looking to make it healthier, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You'll still get that meaty texture, but with a leaner protein.

For a vegetarian version, skip the meat altogether and use black beans or lentils instead. They add a hearty, protein-packed bite while keeping the dish completely meat-free.

Want an extra kick? Stir in some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to amp up the spice level.

Mix up the cheese! While cheddar and Monterey Jack are great options, you can also try pepper jack for a spicier twist or even cream cheese for extra creaminess.

However you choose to make it, this One Pot Beef Taco Pasta is guaranteed to be a hit. Get ready for a dish that's as easy as it is delicious!

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