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.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Season to Taste: Taste the pasta and season with salt and pepper as needed to balance the flavors.
- 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
