One Pot Beef Taco Pasta

This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta brings together the bold, zesty flavors of tacos and the comforting heartiness of pasta in a single, fuss-free dish. It’s a quick, family-friendly meal that I like to whip up on busy weeknights when I want something flavorful, filling, and super easy to clean up after. Everything simmers together in one pot, resulting in a creamy, cheesy, taco-inspired pasta that hits all the right notes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the perfect balance of convenience and taste. Here’s why it’s a regular in my dinner rotation:

• It’s a true one-pot wonder, so cleanup is a breeze.
• The flavor is rich, satisfying, and loved by both kids and adults.
• It comes together in just 30 minutes—great for hectic weeknights.
• I can easily customize it with different proteins, veggies, or spice levels.
• Leftovers reheat beautifully, making it a smart choice for meal prep.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• ground beef
• taco seasoning
• pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
• diced tomatoes
• tomato sauce
• beef broth or water
• shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
• olive oil (optional)
• garlic, minced (optional)
• black beans (optional)
• corn kernels (optional)
• jalapeños or diced bell peppers (optional)

Directions

1. Brown the Beef
   I start by heating a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Sometimes I add a tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic for extra depth. I add the ground beef and cook it until browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. If there’s excess grease, I drain it.
2. Add Seasoning and Liquids
   I sprinkle in the taco seasoning and stir to coat the meat evenly. Then, I add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth or water.
3. Cook the Pasta
   I stir in the uncooked pasta, making sure it’s mostly submerged in the liquid. I bring it all to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 10–12 minutes. I stir it occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking.
4. Stir in the Cheese
   Once the pasta is cooked al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed, I reduce the heat and stir in shredded cheese until it’s melted and the sauce is creamy.
5. Serve
   I remove the pot from the heat and garnish with chopped cilantro, green onions, or a spoonful of sour cream. Then I serve it hot and enjoy.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 5 servings and takes only 30 minutes total—10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes to cook. It’s ideal for weeknights when time is tight but I still want something hearty and homemade.

Variations

I often switch things up to suit whatever I have in the fridge:

• Swap the beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a meatless alternative.
• Toss in extra vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
• Make it spicier by adding cayenne, hot sauce, or jalapeños.
• For dietary needs, I use gluten-free pasta or a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Storage/Reheating

If I have leftovers, here’s how I keep them fresh and tasty:

• Storing: I place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: I reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth to keep it saucy.
• Freezing: This pasta freezes well. I freeze it in a sealed container for up to 3 months and thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, I’ve made this with macaroni, fusilli, and bow ties. I just adjust the cooking time to ensure the pasta is tender.

What can I use instead of ground beef?

I often use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Plant-based meat substitutes also work great if I’m going for a vegetarian meal.

How can I make this dish spicier?

I like to stir in diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce if I’m craving extra heat.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. I sometimes cook it the day before and reheat it with a little broth for a quick dinner.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, the mild taco flavor and cheesy pasta make it a favorite with kids. I usually go easy on the spice when making it for the whole family.

Conclusion

This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta is everything I love in a dinner: simple, flavorful, and fast. It’s a comforting mix of Tex-Mex zest and creamy pasta goodness—all cooked in one pot. Whether it’s a last-minute weeknight meal or a cozy weekend dinner, this dish always satisfies. I keep it on repeat because it checks every box for taste, ease, and family approval.

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