One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like the bold flavors of tacos combined with the comforting creaminess of pasta. This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta is the perfect fusion dish, bringing together tender ground beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, cheesy taco-seasoned sauce in just one pan.

this Recipe

I first made this recipe on a busy weeknight when I wanted something hearty but didn't want to deal with a sink full of dishes. With just one pot and a handful of pantry staples, I had a meal my entire family devoured, making it an instant favorite.

Why You'll Love This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta

Get ready to add a new staple to your dinner rotation. This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta is about to become your go-to for busy evenings.

First off, it's incredibly quick and easy. From start to finish, this meal takes just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights when time is tight.

You'll also love how budget-friendly it is. Using simple, affordable ingredients like ground beef, pasta, and taco seasoning, you can feed a whole family without breaking the bank.

Not only is it delicious, but it's also a one-pot wonder. That means minimal cleanup, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time washing dishes.

Best of all, it's kid-approved. The creamy, cheesy, taco-flavored pasta is a hit with picky eaters, making dinnertime stress-free and satisfying for everyone.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this One Pot Beef Taco Pasta lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients, each bringing something special to the dish.

Ground beef is the heart of this recipe, providing a rich, savory flavor. I prefer using 80/20 beef for the perfect balance of flavor and tenderness, but leaner beef works too if you want a lighter dish.

Taco seasoning is what gives this pasta its signature Tex-Mex flair. A store-bought packet works great for convenience, but if you have a homemade blend, that will take the flavor to the next level.

Pasta plays a crucial role in making this dish hearty and satisfying. Short pasta like rotini, penne, or shells work best, as they hold onto the sauce beautifully.

Tomato sauce and beef broth create a rich, flavorful base. The broth infuses the pasta with meaty goodness as it cooks, while the tomato sauce adds just the right amount of acidity and depth.

Cheese is the finishing touch that brings everything together. A combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack melts perfectly into the sauce, making it creamy and delicious.

A large skillet or Dutch oven is the only piece of equipment you'll need, keeping things simple and cleanup minimal.

How To Make This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta

Making this One Pot Beef Taco Pasta is a breeze, with just a few simple steps leading to a flavorful, satisfying meal.

Start by heating a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease.

Stir in the taco seasoning, making sure the beef is evenly coated with all those delicious spices. Let it cook for another minute to enhance the flavors before adding the tomato sauce and beef broth.

Add the uncooked pasta directly into the pan, stirring everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pan and let the pasta cook, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.

Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheese. The cheese will melt into the sauce, creating a creamy, irresistible texture.

Let the dish sit for a couple of minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.

Storage Options

This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta stores well, making it a great option for meal prep and leftovers.

To store, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop, making the dish even tastier the next day.

For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to revive the creamy texture. You can also use the microwave, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring in between.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for plenty of customizations to suit your tastes and dietary needs.

For a leaner version, swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You’ll still get all the flavor with less fat.

Want to add more veggies? Stir in diced bell peppers, corn, or black beans for extra texture and nutrition. Spinach or zucchini also blend well into the dish.

Make it spicy by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce. Adjust the heat level based on your preference.

Prefer a creamier texture? Stir in a little cream cheese or sour cream at the end for an ultra-rich and velvety sauce.

Experiment with different cheeses like Pepper Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for a unique twist on the flavor profile.

No matter how you customize it, this One Pot Beef Taco Pasta is sure to be a hit at your dinner table!

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