Easy One Pot Taco Pasta Recipe
Taco night just got a whole lot easier with this Easy One Pot Taco Pasta Recipe. If you’re like me and love the bold flavors of tacos but dread the cleanup afterward, then this recipe is a total game-changer. Imagine all those savory taco flavors infused into tender pasta, all cooked in one pot! It’s a quick, hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you need a comforting dish. Plus, it comes together in about 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for those who want a delicious meal without the fuss.
Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Top Reasons to Make Easy One Pot Taco Pasta Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish.
- One Pot Wonder: Minimized cleanup makes it a win for busy cooks.
- Flavor Packed: Bursting with the zesty flavors of taco seasoning and cheese.
- Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients to fit your dietary preferences.
- Kid-Friendly: A fun and hearty meal that kids will love.
What We’re Using
To create this delicious dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 medium cloves minced garlic
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 2 cups water
- 3 cups (10 ounces) medium shell pasta or any pasta of your choice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ tsp salt, if needed depending on how much sodium your taco seasoning and beef broth have
Equipment Breakdown
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Ideal for cooking the entire dish in one go.
- Wooden Spoon: For stirring the ingredients together.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
- Sharp Knife: To finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
Easy One Pot Taco Pasta Recipe, Made Easy
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In your large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with your wooden spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Once the beef is cooked through, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Flavorings
Stir in the taco seasoning and tomato paste, mixing well to ensure the beef is fully coated with the spices. Cook for an additional minute to enhance the flavors.
Step 4: Incorporate the Liquids
Pour in the beef broth and water, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Add the medium shell pasta to the pot, stirring well to ensure it’s submerged in the liquid. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente.
Step 6: Finish with Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and becomes creamy. Taste and season with salt if necessary.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Spoon the taco pasta into bowls and enjoy your hearty meal. You can top it with additional cheese, sour cream, or chopped cilantro if desired!
Fit It to Your Goals
- Make It Vegetarian: Substitute ground beef with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
- Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
- Add More Veggies: Incorporate bell peppers, corn, or black beans for added nutrition.
- Spice Level: Adjust the taco seasoning to your taste; use mild for a family-friendly version or hot for a spicy kick.
Behind-the-Scenes Notes
This Easy One Pot Taco Pasta Recipe is incredibly forgiving, making it an excellent choice for cooks of all skill levels. If you have leftover taco seasoning from a previous night, feel free to use that up! Additionally, this dish is perfect for meal prep—simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave for a quick lunch or dinner.
- Consider adding toppings like avocado or jalapenos for an extra flavor boost.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips or a side salad.
Save It for Later
Want to keep this recipe handy for when you need it? You can bookmark this page or save it to your recipe management app. The Easy One Pot Taco Pasta Recipe is not only quick to whip up, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that you’re sure to want to make again and again!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative for the ground beef. Adjust the cooking time as necessary based on the meat you choose.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
Consider adding diced tomatoes, green chiles, or even a splash of lime juice for added brightness. Fresh herbs like cilantro can also elevate the flavors.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this taco pasta freezes well! Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How do I store the leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a pot on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Keep Cooking
- Sally’s Baking Addiction for more delicious pasta recipes.
- Pinch of Yum for fantastic weeknight dinner ideas.
- Minimalist Baker for simple and easy recipes.
- Allrecipes for a variety of meal inspirations.
Let’s Eat
With its comforting flavors and easy preparation, the Easy One Pot Taco Pasta Recipe is bound to become a staple in your meal rotation. Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a satisfying dish that brings the excitement of taco night right to your table. Happy cooking!
Easy One Pot Taco Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In your large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with your wooden spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the beef is cooked through, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and tomato paste, mixing well to ensure the beef is fully coated with the spices. Cook for an additional minute to enhance the flavors.
- Pour in the beef broth and water, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Add the medium shell pasta to the pot, stirring well to ensure it’s submerged in the liquid. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente.
- Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and becomes creamy. Taste and season with salt if necessary.
- Spoon the taco pasta into bowls and enjoy your hearty meal. You can top it with additional cheese, sour cream, or chopped cilantro if desired!
Notes
- Consider adding toppings like avocado or jalapenos for an extra flavor boost.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips or a side salad.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
