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
Scale
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.
