If you’re looking for a comforting, flavor-packed dinner that comes together in a flash, look no further than this One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe. Imagine all the bold, zesty flavors of your favorite tacos blended with creamy pasta, melting cheddar cheese, and tender ground beef—all cooked in a single pot for easy cleanup. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that feels special but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Ready to dive into a dish that brings the best of Tex-Mex and Italian comfort food together? Let’s get started!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple ingredients each play an essential role in balancing flavor, texture, and richness in this dish. From tender ground beef providing the hearty base to creamy cheese that brings everything together, every item makes this recipe shine.
- Ground beef (1 lb): The star protein that delivers juicy, savory goodness.
- Small onion, diced (1): Adds subtle sweetness and depth.
- Garlic cloves, minced (2): Provides aromatic warmth that wakes up the palate.
- Taco seasoning packet: Infuses the dish with classic Tex-Mex spices.
- Can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (14.5 oz, undrained): Brings a touch of heat and acidity for balance.
- Beef broth (3 cups): The flavorful liquid base that cooks the pasta to perfection.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates that irresistibly creamy sauce.
- Elbow macaroni or rotini pasta (8 oz, uncooked): Catches all the sauce in its nooks and crannies.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup plus extra): Melts into a rich, gooey finish.
- Salt and pepper: For seasoning and precise flavor tuning.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional): Adds a bright herbal note.
- Sour cream (optional): Offers a cool, tangy contrast as a topping.
- Lime wedges (optional): Provide a fresh burst of citrus brightness.
How to Make One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating a little oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Toss in the ground beef and cook it, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through—this usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. When your kitchen starts smelling like sizzling beef, you’re on the right track. Drain any excess fat so the dish doesn’t turn greasy.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Next, toss the diced onion into the pot and let it cook with the beef for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant—the aroma here is simply mouthwatering and signals flavor building at its finest.
Step 3: Add the Seasonings and Tomatoes
Sprinkle in your taco seasoning, stirring to coat all the beef and onions evenly with those zesty spices. Pour in the undrained can of diced tomatoes with green chilies—this adds a wonderful mild heat and juiciness—and then add the beef broth. Give everything a good stir to combine all the flavors before moving forward.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Add your uncooked pasta directly into the pot and submerge it in the liquid. Bring the entire mixture up to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has absorbed. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent sticking—it’s all happening in one pot, so stay attentive!
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
Once your pasta is perfectly cooked, pour in the heavy cream and stir to create a luxuriously creamy sauce. Let it simmer for another minute or two to thicken things up. Finally, add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir continuously until it melts and the sauce gets beautifully smooth and cheesy—this is the signature moment of your One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe!
Step 6: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Give your dish a quick taste test. Add salt and pepper as needed to balance the flavors. This little adjustment step ensures each bite sings with seasoning harmony, tailored to your palate.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Now your One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe is ready to be enjoyed. Ladle it into bowls and prepare to savor a comforting, cheesy, flavorful meal.
How to Serve One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Top your pasta with a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar cheese for that inviting cheesy appearance. Fresh chopped cilantro adds a burst of color and a refreshing lift, while a dollop of sour cream lends cooling creaminess that contrasts perfectly with those spicy taco flavors. Don’t forget a squeeze of lime for a tangy zing that brightens every forkful.
Side Dishes
This dish is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to expand the feast, consider serving it alongside a simple garden salad or some warm, crusty bread to soak up every last bite of cheesy sauce. Mexican street corn or lightly spiced black beans can also round out the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pasta in individual mini cast-iron skillets straight from the stove to table—it keeps things warm longer and looks rustic and inviting. You might also try layering it in a casserole dish, topped with extra cheese and baked briefly for a golden crusty finish that takes this One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe over the top.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The dish will keep well for up to 3 days, making it an ideal option for quick lunches or easy dinners during a busy week.
Freezing
If you want to keep this dish longer, it freezes well too. Place portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, removing as much air as possible. Frozen, it will stay delicious for up to 2 months. Just keep in mind cheesy pasta can sometimes change texture slightly after freezing.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to bring back creaminess. Stir occasionally to heat evenly without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great and offers a lighter twist while still soaking up the bold taco flavors beautifully.
Is it okay to use a homemade taco seasoning?
Yes! Homemade seasoning can add a personalized touch and lets you control the spice level and ingredients, making your One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe even more special.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or full-fat milk combined with a little butter to mimic the richness, though the sauce may be slightly less thick.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Definitely—just swap the pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety, and double-check that your taco seasoning doesn’t contain hidden gluten ingredients.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level depends mostly on your taco seasoning and the green chilies in the tomatoes. You can control the heat by choosing mild or spicy seasoning packets or by adding fresh jalapeños if you want to kick things up.
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe is a total game-changer for anyone craving a quick, delicious meal bursting with familiar bold flavors and creamy comfort. It’s easy to make, easy to love, and perfect for those nights when you want something cozy without the fuss. Trust me, once you try it, this dish will become a go-to favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Print
One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta combines the bold flavors of taco seasoning with tender pasta and creamy cheese, all cooked together in a single pot. It’s a quick and easy dinner option perfect for busy weeknights, offering a hearty, cheesy, and spicy meal that requires minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning blend)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 3 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 cup heavy cream
Pasta and Cheese
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or rotini pasta (uncooked)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for garnish)
Additional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish, optional)
- Sour cream (optional, for serving)
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion to the pot with the beef and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Seasonings and Tomatoes: Stir in the taco seasoning, coating the beef and onions well. Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained) and add the beef broth. Stir to combine.
- Add the Pasta: Add the uncooked pasta to the pot, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook about 10-12 minutes until pasta is tender and most liquid absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Once pasta is cooked and liquid mostly absorbed, pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let simmer 1-2 minutes to thicken the sauce. Then add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and sauce becomes creamy.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your preference.
- Serve: Serve hot, garnished with extra shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream if desired. Lime wedges can be served alongside for extra zest.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add jalapeños or extra chili powder.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
