If you’re craving a delicious, comforting meal that comes together quickly and with minimal cleanup, look no further than this One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe. This vibrant, cheesy fusion dish captures all the bold flavors of classic tacos but in a satisfying pasta form, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. As the rich ground beef simmers with a blend of spices, tomatoes, and tender pasta, everything melds into a creamy, flavorful pot that’s sure to win over everyone at the table. Plus, the ease of cooking everything in one pot means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying every savory bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and that irresistible taco-inspired charm. You’ll find that with just a handful of staples, you can whip up a crowd-pleaser that feels both hearty and comforting.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides a savory and meaty base, essential for that rich taco flavor.
- 1 small onion (diced): Adds sweetness and depth when cooked alongside the beef.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Gives a subtle aromatic kick that enhances all the other ingredients.
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade): The heart of the dish’s signature flavor, packing a punch of spices.
- 2 cups beef broth: Helps cook the pasta and infuses the whole dish with savory richness.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices): Brings freshness and a touch of acidity to balance the richness.
- 1 cup tomato sauce: Contributes to a smooth, saucy consistency that coats the pasta perfectly.
- 2 cups uncooked pasta shells or elbows: Absorbs all those amazing flavors while providing tender, comforting texture.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts creamy and adds sharpness for that classic cheesy taco vibe.
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Offers a mellow, buttery counterpoint to the cheddar.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed): Helps brown the beef and onion, especially if your ground beef is very lean.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring everything together.
- Chopped cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional): Adds freshness and a pop of color for the final touch.
How to Make One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté the Onion
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat, especially if you’re using lean ground beef. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef is completely browned and the onion becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, carefully drain it off to keep the dish from becoming greasy. This step builds a robust foundation for the flavors that follow.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Taco Seasoning
Stir in the minced garlic and taco seasoning, cooking for just another minute. This brief sauté releases the spices’ aromas, infusing the beef with that unmistakable taco flair. It’s a small step but one that really wakes up the flavor profile.
Step 3: Combine Liquids and Pasta
Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes with their juices, and tomato sauce, stirring to combine everything evenly. Then add the uncooked pasta, making sure it’s submerged in the liquid. This is the magic of the One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe — the pasta cooks right in the flavorful sauce, soaking up all those delicious tastes.
Step 4: Simmer and Cook Pasta
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the pasta to become tender while most of the liquid is absorbed, creating a lovely thick sauce that clings to every noodle.
Step 5: Stir in the Cheeses
Turn off the heat and immediately stir in both the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. The residual heat melts the cheeses into a creamy, gooey sauce that makes this dish utterly irresistible. At this point, taste and add salt and pepper if needed to perfectly balance the flavors.
How to Serve One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped cilantro or thinly sliced green onions really livens up the dish, providing a fresh pop of color and herbaceous note that cuts through the richness. If you love a touch of extra zest, a dollop of sour cream or a few slices of avocado also work beautifully here.
Side Dishes
This hearty pasta pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the meal. If you want more taco vibes, consider serving with warm tortillas and some fresh pico de gallo on the side for a fun twist.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual family dinner, serve this pasta straight from the pot for a cozy, no-fuss experience. For a more festive touch, plate it individually and garnish each serving with a wedge of lime and a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips for a playful crunch. You could even bake it briefly with extra cheese on top for a crispy crust that everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
One of the joys of the One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe is how well it keeps. Let leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors meld beautifully over time, making your next meal just as tasty as the first.
Freezing
You can also freeze this pasta for up to two months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and adding a splash of beef broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much. The cheese will warm up nicely, restoring that creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While pasta shells or elbows work wonderfully, feel free to substitute with penne, rotini, or even macaroni. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as they might vary slightly depending on the shape and size.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat alternative or cooked lentils for a hearty vegetarian version. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and keep the taco seasoning for that spicy kick.
How spicy is the dish?
The spice level depends largely on your taco seasoning choice. Using a mild seasoning packet will keep it kid-friendly, while a hotter blend or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can turn up the heat for adult palates.
Can I add extra vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Black beans, corn, diced bell peppers, or even zucchini chunks make fantastic additions that add texture and nutritional value without overwhelming the beloved taco pasta flavors.
What’s the best way to prevent the pasta from sticking?
Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally while it simmers to prevent clumping. Using enough liquid and covering the pot helps the pasta cook evenly and absorb the delicious sauce without sticking to the bottom.
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe is a total game-changer when you want a satisfying, flavorful meal with minimal fuss. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table eager for seconds, thanks to its brilliant blend of cheesy comfort and zesty taco-inspired goodness. Give it a try soon — you might just find a new favorite that fits perfectly into your weeknight dinner rotation!
Print
One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Description
One Pot Beef Taco Pasta is a comforting and flavorful Mexican-inspired dish combining seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and a blend of melted cheeses all cooked together in a single pot. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, it delivers cheesy, savory goodness with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 cups uncooked pasta shells or elbows
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, if needed for cooking lean beef)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Chopped cilantro or green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef and Onion: In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat if using lean ground beef. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion softens, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Garlic and Seasoning: Stir in the minced garlic and taco seasoning, cooking for 1 more minute until fragrant and well combined.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes with juices, and tomato sauce. Add the uncooked pasta. Stir everything thoroughly to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Incorporate Cheese: Turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and creamy throughout the pasta.
- Season and Garnish: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- For added texture and flavor, add a can of black beans or corn when adding the liquids.
- Works well with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta varieties.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat well.
