If you’re looking for a flavorful, comforting, and incredibly easy meal to whip up on a busy weeknight, the One Pot Taco Pasta Recipe is about to become your new best friend. With its perfect blend of seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and cheesy goodness all cooked in a single pot, this dish brings together the zest of tacos and the heartiness of pasta in the most effortless and satisfying way. It’s a dish that promises minimal cleanup and maximum flavor—a true kitchen win!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the secret behind making this dish sing. Each component is simple yet essential, contributing rich flavors, perfect textures, and vibrant colors that make this one pot wonder come alive.
- Olive oil: For browning the beef and sautéing the aromatics, adding a subtle fruitiness.
- Ground beef: The hearty protein base that carries all the spicy and savory notes.
- Diced onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- Minced garlic: Brings an aromatic punch that wakes up the whole dish.
- Taco seasoning: Your flavor powerhouse, packed with chili powder, cumin, and spices that define the taco taste.
- Diced tomatoes: Provide juicy bursts of acidity and freshness.
- Tomato sauce: Creates a rich, saucy base that coats the pasta beautifully.
- Chicken or beef broth: Adds moisture and savory depth while cooking the pasta.
- Uncooked pasta shells: These little pockets hold the sauce perfectly for every bite.
- Frozen corn: For pops of sweetness and a bit of texture contrast.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into creamy gooeyness that ties everything together.
- Salt and pepper: To balance and enhance all the flavors.
- Fresh cilantro (optional): Adds a bright, herbal lift at the end.
How to Make One Pot Taco Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Toss in the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned and crumbly, breaking it apart with your spoon. This step not only adds great flavor but also creates a savory base for the entire dish.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic directly into the pot with the beef. Sauté them just until the onion turns translucent—this usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes—and releases sweet, fragrant aromas.
Step 3: Add the Taco Seasoning
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the meat and veggies, then stir thoroughly to coat everything evenly. This step is pure magic because it infuses the beef with bold, warm flavors essential to taco-inspired dishes.
Step 4: Pour in Tomatoes, Sauce, and Broth
Now pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Stir well to combine all those rich ingredients. This will become your flavorful cooking liquid that also soaks into the pasta later.
Step 5: Add Pasta and Corn
Dump the uncooked pasta shells and frozen corn into the pot next. Stir carefully to submerge the pasta into the liquid. This is where the one pot magic happens, allowing the pasta to absorb all those amazing taco flavors as it cooks.
Step 6: Simmer Until Pasta is Tender
Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Your kitchen will start smelling absolutely irresistible by now!
Step 7: Stir in the Cheese
Remove the pot from heat and immediately stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Watch it melt smoothly into the dish, creating a creamy texture that envelops each shell in cheesy bliss.
Step 8: Season and Garnish
Finish by seasoning to taste with salt and pepper. If you like some fresh brightness, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top. Serve hot and enjoy every comforting, flavorful bite.
How to Serve One Pot Taco Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like fresh cilantro or even a dollop of sour cream and sliced jalapeños can elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise. Each garnish adds a little something special, whether it’s freshness, creaminess, or heat, perfect for customizing your taco pasta experience.
Side Dishes
This recipe works wonderfully as a standalone meal, but if you want to round things out, consider simple sides like a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or even a scoop of Mexican rice. The one pot taco pasta pairs well with anything light and crunchy to balance its creamy texture.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings or fun family dinners, serve this dish in individual bowls topped with avocado slices, chopped green onions, or a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips for a perfect crunch. Presentation can turn a cozy meal into a festive occasion without any fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover One Pot Taco Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days, making it an excellent option for easy lunches or quick dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This dish freezes well! Portion out leftovers into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and you’ll have a speedy meal ready to go.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems dry. Stir occasionally to bring back that creamy texture and evenly warmed flavors, making it just as delicious as the first serving.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you want a leaner option. Just make sure to brown it well to develop flavor, and the taco seasoning will give it that classic taco taste.
What kind of pasta works best for this recipe?
While pasta shells are traditional and perfect for holding sauce, you can use other short pasta shapes like penne or rotini if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep an eye on cooking time, as different shapes can vary slightly.
Is this recipe spicy?
The heat level mostly depends on your taco seasoning. If you prefer mild flavors, look for a mild taco seasoning or reduce the amount. For a spicier kick, consider adding extra chili powder or some diced jalapeños.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with black beans or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Use vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken broth, and you have a delicious vegetarian one pot taco pasta.
Do I need to cook the pasta separately?
No need at all. The beauty of this One Pot Taco Pasta Recipe is that the pasta cooks directly in the flavorful broth along with the other ingredients, saving you time and reducing dishes.
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Taco Pasta Recipe is a true game changer for anyone who loves bold flavors with minimal effort and cleanup. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm, comforting hug on a plate. I can’t wait for you to make it your own and enjoy every cheesy, spicy, saucy bite!
Print
One Pot Taco Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 25m
- Total Time: 0h 35m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
This One Pot Taco Pasta is a flavorful and easy-to-make dinner combining the zest of taco seasoning with comforting pasta. Ground beef is cooked with onions and garlic, then simmered with diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth, along with pasta shells and corn. The dish finishes with melted cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a delicious, hearty meal all made in a single pot.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or about 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 2 cups chicken or beef broth
- 2 cups uncooked pasta shells
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, and cook until the onions turn translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add taco seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning, ensuring the beef and onions are evenly coated with the spices.
- Add liquids: Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Mix everything together until thoroughly combined.
- Add pasta and corn: Stir in the uncooked pasta shells and frozen corn, making sure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid.
- Simmer the pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts evenly throughout the pasta.
- Season to taste: Add salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Garnish and serve: Top with fresh cilantro if desired and serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- For extra spice, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- If you prefer gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta shells.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- To make it vegetarian, omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead.
