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
Scale
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.
