One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe

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If you love bold flavors and fuss-free cooking, this One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe is an absolute game-changer. It combines the zesty spice of taco seasoning with creamy, melty cheese and tender pasta all cooked together in a single pot, making it both rich in flavor and incredibly convenient. This dish delivers a perfect balance of savory beef, tangy tomato, and cheesy goodness that everyone will adore, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the ground beef providing hearty richness, to the taco seasoning infusing that vibrant, spicy kick, and the cheeses adding creamy depth and gooey texture. You’ll be amazed how these familiar ingredients come together effortlessly for a dish packed with flavor and color.

• Ground beef (1 lb): Use lean or regular for juicy, savory meatiness that forms the dish’s base.
• Small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and aroma when sautéed with garlic.
• Garlic cloves, minced (2): Brings a fragrant, mouth-watering depth to the sauce.
• Taco seasoning packet (1) or 2 tbsp homemade: The magic blend that sets the Mexican-inspired tone.
• Beef broth (2 cups) or water: Creates the flavorful cooking liquid that softens the pasta.
• Diced tomatoes, undrained (1 can, 14.5 oz): Offers fresh acidity and vibrant bursts of tomato.
• Tomato sauce (1 can, 8 oz): Adds richness and a smooth, saucy consistency.
• Uncooked pasta (2 cups, rotini or penne): The perfect shape for catching every bit of cheesy taco flavor.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts into a sharp, creamy texture that ties the dish together.
• Shredded Monterey Jack cheese (1/2 cup): Offers a mild, buttery creaminess that balances the cheddar.
• Milk (1/2 cup, optional): Adds extra creaminess if you want an even richer feel.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to round out the flavors.
• Fresh cilantro or green onions (optional): Bright garnishes that lift the finished dish.

How to Make One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Start by heating a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Toss in the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with your spoon as it sizzles. This step builds the foundational savory flavor for the dish. When the beef is cooked through, drain any excess grease to keep things light but tasty.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Next, add diced onions and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the onions become soft and fragrant. This combo introduces natural sweetness and aromatic depth, enhancing every bite of the final dish.

Step 3: Combine Seasonings, Liquids, and Pasta

Now it’s time to stir in the taco seasoning, beef broth, diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato sauce, and the uncooked pasta. Give everything a good mix to coat the pasta and distribute the spices evenly. This is where the flavor really starts coming together all in one pot.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Turn the heat up just until the mixture reaches a gentle boil, then reduce it to low. Cover your pot and let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The pasta will soak up all the delicious juices, becoming tender while the sauce thickens—this is the heart of the One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe magic.

Step 5: Add the Cheeses and Creaminess

Once your pasta is tender and perfectly saucy, stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Watch as they melt into a luscious, creamy sauce that clings to every spiral and penne bite. For an extra silky texture, stir in a splash of milk. Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

To make your dish pop, sprinkle some freshly chopped cilantro or sliced green onions on top. These bright garnishes add color and a fresh crunch that brings the whole meal together beautifully.

How to Serve One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro or green onions are classic toppings that brighten the rich, cheesy flavors, while a dollop of sour cream or sliced jalapeños can add a creamy or spicy twist. These finishing touches make every forkful taste even more special.

Side Dishes

This hearty pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in lime vinaigrette or simple avocado slices to cool the spice. For a crunchy contrast, serve alongside tortilla chips or roasted corn for a Tex-Mex inspired twist.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun family meal, serve the pasta in individual mini cast iron skillets or vibrant bowls to keep portions warm and inviting. You can also turn this recipe into a layered casserole baked briefly with extra cheese on top for a bubbly crust.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which might be rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after sitting, making it just as delicious the next day.

Freezing

This One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, label them, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. Stir occasionally while warming to keep the cheese sauce creamy and prevent it from sticking or drying out. Adding a small splash of milk can help restore that fresh-from-the-pot smoothness.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully in this recipe and offers a leaner alternative that still absorbs all the taco spices beautifully.

What type of pasta is best for this dish?

Rotini or penne are ideal because their shapes hold onto the cheesy taco sauce well. However, feel free to experiment with other short pasta varieties you love.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Just swap the meat for sautéed mushrooms, beans, or a plant-based ground meat substitute. The taco seasoning and cheeses will keep it flavorful and satisfying.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Definitely! Just use a large enough pot and slightly increase the cooking time when simmering to ensure the pasta cooks evenly in the increased liquid volume.

What makes this a “One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe” special?

Its simplicity and flavor-packed layering of taco-inspired seasonings, creamy cheeses, and pasta all cooked together in one pot make this recipe a standout, saving time and cleanup without sacrificing taste.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting and joyful about a meal that’s this easy yet bursting with flavor. I can’t recommend the One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe enough for anyone craving a quick, satisfying dinner that pleases the whole family. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become one of your go-to comfort dishes in no time!

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One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe

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3.8 from 24 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta is a quick and easy weeknight dinner that combines the bold flavors of taco seasoning with comforting cheesy pasta. Ground beef, tomatoes, and pasta simmer together to create a flavorful and hearty meal that requires minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy families, this recipe delivers a satisfying Tex-Mex twist on classic pasta dishes.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat and Vegetables

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasoning and Liquids

• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning)
• 2 cups beef broth (or water)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce

Pasta and Dairy

• 2 cups uncooked pasta (such as rotini or penne)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup milk (optional, for creaminess)

Seasoning and Garnish

• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Cook the Meat: In a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease if necessary to keep the dish from being too oily.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the cooked beef and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent, enhancing the dish’s flavor base.
3. Add Seasonings and Liquids: Stir in the taco seasoning, beef broth, diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato sauce, and uncooked pasta. Mix everything thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
4. Simmer the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Add Cheese and Creaminess: Stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy. Optionally, add a splash of milk to increase creaminess if desired.
6. Season to Taste: Taste the pasta and season with salt and pepper as needed to balance the flavors.
7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the finished pasta with freshly chopped cilantro or sliced green onions before serving for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Notes

• You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a leaner option.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, use a plant-based ground meat alternative and vegetable broth.
• Adding milk is optional but recommended for a creamier sauce.
• Any short pasta shape works well, but rotini or penne hold the sauce nicely.
• Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat well on the stovetop or microwave.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Tex-Mex