If you are craving a cozy, flavorful meal that comes together quickly and cleans up just as easily, the One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe is your new best friend. This dish combines the hearty, zesty flavors of taco-seasoned ground beef with tender pasta all cooked in a single pot, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that bursts with cheesy, creamy goodness and just the right amount of spice. It’s comfort food meets a fiesta in your mouth, delivering bold taste and effortless prep in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your hands on these simple but essential ingredients will guarantee a deliciously balanced meal full of savory, spicy, and creamy layers. Each item plays a special role—from the flavorful taco seasoning to the melty cheddar cheese that adds the perfect finishing touch.
- 1 pound ground beef: The star protein that soaks up all the taco spices and provides hearty substance.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the beef base for a richer flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant punch that elevates the entire dish.
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning: The magical blend that gives this dish its iconic taco taste.
- 2 cups beef broth: Keeps the pasta moist while infusing it with savory beef flavor.
- 1 cup salsa: Adds a bright, tangy note and a little extra kick.
- 1 cup water: Helps cook the pasta perfectly without drying out the dish.
- 8 oz uncooked pasta shells or elbow macaroni: The tender carbs that soak up all the delicious sauce.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into creamy goodness, making every spoonful irresistible.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds cooling creaminess that balances the spices beautifully.
- Optional toppings (chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, fresh cilantro): Fresh garnishes that add color, crunch, and zest.
How to Make One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Beef and Onion
Begin by heating a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef turns a nice brown and the onions soften to sweet, translucent perfection. This base layer brings together savory richness and natural sweetness that forms the heart of your dish.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Taco Seasoning
After draining excess fat to keep things from getting greasy, stir in the minced garlic and taco seasoning. Cook for about one minute until the aroma becomes irresistible. This step wakes up the spices and infuses the meat with that classic taco flavor everyone loves.
Step 3: Pour in Liquids and Add Pasta
Next, add the beef broth, salsa, and water right into the pot, giving everything a good stir before bringing it to a gentle simmer. Submerge your uncooked pasta in this flavorful liquid, cover the pot, and let it cook for 10 to 12 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to avoid sticking and ensure even cooking. This is where the pasta absorbs all the amazing flavors while softening just right.
Step 4: Stir in Cheese and Sour Cream
Once the pasta is tender, reduce the heat to low and fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream. Stir gently until everything melds into a creamy, dreamy sauce. This luscious finish ties the entire dish together in a warm, cheesy hug you won’t be able to resist.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Top off your One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe with your choice of optional garnishes like chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Each adds an inviting pop of color and fresh flavor to brighten every bite.
How to Serve One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Take your presentation up a notch by scattering fresh garnishes such as chopped green onions for a mild crunch, diced tomatoes for juicy bursts, or fresh cilantro leaves for an herbal lift. These additions not only enhance the visual appeal but add layers of fresh flavor that complement the rich, cheesy pasta beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair this delicious One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe with simple sides like a crisp green salad tossed in lime vinaigrette or some warm, crusty garlic bread to mop up every last bit of cheesy sauce. Roasted vegetables or a bowl of black beans also make fantastic companions to round out the meal and keep it balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling playful? Serve this pasta in colorful bowls or layered in a clear casserole dish to showcase the vibrant salsa and cheese layers. For a fun twist at gatherings, consider stuffing mini bell peppers or baked potatoes with scoops of the pasta for handheld tacos meets pasta combos everyone will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, transfer any leftovers into airtight containers and refrigerate within two hours. The One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe holds up well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy second dinners.
Freezing
If you want to keep this comforting dish on hand even longer, freeze the pasta in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before freezing to maintain flavor and texture when thawed.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water to bring back the creamy texture. Stir occasionally to heat evenly and keep the cheesy sauce luscious without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni or pasta shells work great here, you can swap in penne, rotini, or any small-shaped pasta you have on hand. Just make sure the pasta cooks well in the liquid and adjust cooking time if needed.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or use extra beans like black beans or pinto beans. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and you’ll have a hearty vegetarian version that still packs plenty of taco flavor.
Can I make this dish spicier?
Definitely. Add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when cooking the beef, or choose a spicier salsa. Adjust the heat to your personal taste to keep things lively and exciting.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, skip the cheddar cheese and sour cream or use plant-based alternatives. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor, and coconut or cashew-based sour cream options work great for that creamy finish.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance and reheat for meal prep?
Yes, One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe is fantastic for meal prepping. Cook it as instructed, store in individual portions, and reheat gently. Just stir in a little extra liquid if it seems too thick after refrigerating.
Final Thoughts
The One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe truly brings comfort, flavor, and convenience together in one satisfying dish. Whether you’re feeding a family or just craving a fuss-free, delicious dinner, this recipe promises to become a fast favorite. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be coming back to this easy, cheesy, taco-inspired pasta time and time again.
Print
One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta is a quick and flavorful dinner combining classic taco seasoning and ground beef with tender pasta cooked all in one pot. It’s a comforting, cheesy meal perfect for busy weeknights, featuring savory beef, tangy salsa, and creamy cheddar and sour cream, topped with fresh garnishes for added brightness.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup water
Pasta and Dairy
- 8 oz uncooked pasta shells or elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Optional Toppings
- Chopped green onions
- Diced tomatoes
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: Heat a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Seasoning: Drain any excess fat from the pot, then add the minced garlic and taco seasoning. Cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently until fragrant to develop the flavors.
- Add Liquids and Bring to Simmer: Stir in the beef broth, salsa, and water. Increase heat to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, ensuring all the flavors combine well.
- Cook Pasta: Add the uncooked pasta shells or elbow macaroni, making sure they are fully submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the flavors.
- Incorporate Cheese and Sour Cream: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream, mixing until melted and creamy, creating a rich sauce that coats the pasta and beef mixture.
- Serve and Garnish: Spoon the beef taco pasta into bowls and garnish with optional toppings such as chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, and fresh cilantro for extra color and freshness. Serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- If you prefer spicier flavors, add a pinch of crushed red pepper or a splash of hot sauce when adding the taco seasoning.
- For a dairy-free version, omit the cheese and sour cream or use non-dairy alternatives.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Make sure to stir occasionally during pasta cooking to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.
