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
Scale
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.
