One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe

If you’re in the mood for something quick, hearty, and loaded with flavor, this One Pot Beef Taco Pasta is about to become your new weeknight hero. Imagine all the zesty excitement of taco night, the comforting creaminess of a cheesy pasta, and barely any dishes to clean up—that’s what makes this recipe an absolute legend. Every bite pops with bold Tex-Mex flavors, tender pasta, and just the right amount of cheesy goodness, leaving the whole family coming back for seconds.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need a laundry list of fancy ingredients to make One Pot Beef Taco Pasta, but each one plays a key role in creating that signature taste and soul-warming feel. Here’s what you need, plus a few tricks for extra flavor or making it your own.

• 1 pound ground beef: Go for 80/20 for maximum juiciness, or sub with ground turkey if you like it lighter.
• 1 small onion, diced: Adds gentle sweetness and depth to balance those taco spices.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that irresistible aroma as you start cooking.
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade): Use your favorite blend—spicy, mild, or even low sodium.
• 2 cups beef broth: Infuses the pasta and meat with savory richness.
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel): Brings tang, juiciness, and a gentle kick.
• 8 ounces uncooked pasta shells: Shells catch all the sauce and beef, making every bite a flavor bomb.
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce: Rounds out the sauce with thickness and hint of sweetness.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Classic, sharp, and creamy—be generous!
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Melts beautifully for gooey-factor and flavor balance.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional): Adds a burst of freshness that makes the dish pop.
• Sour cream and sliced green onions for garnish (optional): They bring creaminess and color to every bowl.

How to Make One Pot Beef Taco Pasta

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onion

Start by grabbing your favorite deep skillet or a Dutch oven—the roomier, the better. Set it over medium heat, then toss in the ground beef and diced onion. Cook, crumbling the beef as you go, until the meat is browned and the onions are soft and slightly golden, about five to seven minutes. Don’t rush this step; this is where all that base flavor begins. Drain any excess fat if there’s a lot—it helps keep the finished dish just rich enough.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Taco Seasoning

Sprinkle in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute so the kitchen fills with its mouthwatering aroma. Next, stir in your taco seasoning of choice. Whether you’re using a store-bought packet or your own homemade blend, this is where One Pot Beef Taco Pasta gets its boldly seasoned backbone. Stir it well so all the beef gets coated.

Step 3: Simmer with Broth, Tomatoes, and Pasta

Now comes the magic of making it all in one pot. Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes with green chilies (liquid and all), pasta shells, and tomato sauce. Give everything a good mix, scraping up any flavorful bits from the pot’s bottom. Bring the mixture up to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and let it bubble for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. When the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been soaked up, you’re right on track.

Step 4: Stir in the Cheese

Take the pot off the heat and immediately stir in both the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. They’ll melt right into the sauce, making your One Pot Beef Taco Pasta marvelously creamy and cheesy. Stir until everything is glossy, gooey, and impossible to resist. If you love a little extra cheese on top, nobody’s judging!

Step 5: Finish and Garnish

Throw in a handful of chopped cilantro if you’re a fan of fresh, herbal brightness. Grab some sour cream and sliced green onions for the finishing touch—these garnishes aren’t strictly necessary, but they make each serving look and taste restaurant-worthy. Serve your One Pot Beef Taco Pasta while it’s warm and extra melty!

How to Serve One Pot Beef Taco Pasta

Garnishes

Pile on the flavor and fun with your favorite toppings! Sour cream adds cool creaminess, while green onions and cilantro bring a fresh zing. If you like a little heat, try a sprinkle of chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Crushed tortilla chips also add a satisfying crunch. Each bowl becomes a completely personalized taco pasta experience.

Side Dishes

One Pot Beef Taco Pasta is delightfully filling all on its own, but pairing it with a simple green salad tossed in a citrusy vinaigrette is an easy way to balance all the big flavors. Garlic bread or warm flour tortillas are always welcome for scooping up every last bit of cheesy sauce. For something lighter, sliced avocado or a quick corn salsa makes an excellent sidekick.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family dinner, serve One Pot Beef Taco Pasta straight from the pot for that charming, homestyle vibe. Hosting a game day? Spoon portions into individual bowls and set out a topping bar for guests to customize. You can also stuff leftovers into bell peppers or even pile onto a baked potato for a fun twist—just another reason to keep this recipe handy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover One Pot Beef Taco Pasta keeps like a dream. Scoop any extras into an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors deepen overnight, making each reheat arguably even tastier than the first round.

Freezing

Want to double up and freeze a batch for later? Totally doable! Let the pasta cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It’ll stay delicious for up to two months. Consider leaving off any fresh garnish until after reheating for the best results.

Reheating

To reheat, just microwave individual portions or return the whole batch to a pot over low heat. Add a splash of broth or water if needed—the pasta soaks up sauce in the fridge. Stir frequently, and add a sprinkle of extra cheese if you want it ultra-indulgent.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While pasta shells are perfect for capturing all the saucy beef, you can use penne, rotini, or elbows. Just check for doneness a couple of minutes early since shapes vary.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

You sure can! Swap the ground beef with your favorite plant-based crumble or black beans, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. All the taco vibes, no meat required.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Double all the ingredients and use a larger pot. Just make sure the pasta is fully covered with liquid, and you may need to simmer a few extra minutes for larger batches. Perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd.

What can I use instead of taco seasoning?

Homemade taco seasoning is easy: Mix together chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Adjust the amounts to your taste and make it as spicy or mild as you’d like.

How can I make One Pot Beef Taco Pasta less spicy?

Choose mild diced tomatoes with green chilies or plain canned tomatoes, and opt for a mild taco seasoning. If you want extra heat, add fresh chilies or hot sauce at the table!

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a flavor-packed dinner that brings together tacos, pasta, and gooey cheese in a single, satisfying pot, you absolutely need to try this One Pot Beef Taco Pasta. One taste and you might find yourself making it every week—don’t be surprised when it becomes a regular request at your dinner table!

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