One Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the perfect combination of convenience and flavor. You only need one pot, which means less mess and more time to enjoy your meal. The taco seasoning infuses the pasta and meat with bold flavor, while the melted cheese makes it irresistibly creamy and comforting. It’s budget-friendly, kid-approved, and customizable to suit your spice level or dietary needs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beef
olive oil (if needed for sautéing)
yellow onion, diced
garlic, minced
taco seasoning
tomato paste
diced tomatoes (canned)
pasta (such as shells or elbow macaroni)
beef or chicken broth
cheddar cheese, shredded
Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese, shredded
optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, jalapeños, green onions

Directions

1. In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat (if needed). Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
3. Mix in taco seasoning and tomato paste, stirring until everything is well coated.
4. Add diced tomatoes, uncooked pasta, and broth. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 12–15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove the lid and stir in shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and creamy.
7. Serve hot, topped with optional sour cream, jalapeños, cilantro, or green onions.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken: Swap out the ground beef for a leaner option.
• Spicy version: Add chili flakes, hot sauce, or spicy taco seasoning.
• Vegetarian: Replace the meat with black beans, lentils, or meatless crumbles.
• Add veggies: Stir in corn, bell peppers, or zucchini with the onions.
• Pasta swap: Use any short pasta like rotini, penne, or bowtie.
• Cheese variety: Try pepper jack, queso fresco, or cream cheese for different textures.
• Low-carb option: Substitute pasta with cooked cauliflower or a low-carb noodle alternative.
• Double the batch: Make a larger portion for meal prep or freezer storage.
• One-pot burrito bowl: Serve over rice instead of pasta for a burrito-style variation.
• Taco topping twist: Top with crushed tortilla chips for added crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, or warm gently on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months—thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a store-bought taco seasoning packet?

Yes, store-bought taco seasoning works great. You can also make your own blend if you prefer.

What’s the best type of pasta for this dish?

Short pasta shapes like shells, penne, or rotini work well and hold the sauce nicely.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep. Just store in the fridge and reheat before serving.

How can I make it creamier?

Stir in a bit of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream at the end for extra richness.

Can I add vegetables to this pasta?

Absolutely. Corn, bell peppers, and black beans are great additions that blend well with the taco flavor.

Is this recipe spicy?

It’s mildly spiced with taco seasoning. For more heat, add jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy seasoning blends.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that your taco seasoning and broth are gluten-free.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom?

Stir the pasta a few times while it cooks and simmer on low heat to avoid sticking or burning.

Can I use a different protein?

Yes, ground chicken, turkey, or even shredded rotisserie chicken works well in this recipe.

What toppings go best with this dish?

Sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, green onions, and crushed tortilla chips are all great topping choices.

Conclusion

One Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta is the answer to busy weeknight dinners that don’t sacrifice flavor or satisfaction. With bold taco spices, a cheesy finish, and tender pasta, this easy one-pot meal is sure to become a regular on your menu. It’s versatile, filling, and simple enough to whip up anytime—without the pile of dishes.

One Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta

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One Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta combines seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and melty cheese into a bold, comforting, and quick dinner. All cooked in one pot, it’s perfect for busy weeknights with minimal cleanup.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, if needed)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp taco seasoning
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups short pasta (shells or elbow macaroni)
• 2 1/2 cups beef or chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese
• Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, jalapeños, green onions

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Instructions

1. In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat (if needed). Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Stir in taco seasoning and tomato paste until beef is evenly coated.
4. Add diced tomatoes, uncooked pasta, and broth. Stir well and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
6. Remove the lid and stir in shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and creamy.
7. Serve hot with optional toppings like sour cream, jalapeños, cilantro, or green onions.

Notes

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• To make it spicier, add hot sauce or chili flakes.
• Add veggies like corn or bell peppers with the onions for extra flavor and nutrition.
• This recipe is freezer-friendly and great for meal prep.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 540
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 880mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 85mg