Description
This One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta is a flavorful and easy weeknight meal that combines the zest of taco seasoning with creamy melted cheeses and tender pasta. Ground beef is cooked with onions and garlic, then simmered with diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and pasta in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Topped with cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, and optionally fresh cilantro or green onions, this dish delivers comforting Tex-Mex flavors in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning)
- 2 cups beef broth (or water)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
Pasta and Cheese
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (such as rotini or penne)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup milk (optional, for creaminess)
Additional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the ground beef: In a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed to avoid a greasy dish.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent, enhancing the flavor base.
- Add seasonings and liquids: Stir in the taco seasoning, beef broth, diced tomatoes with juices, tomato sauce, and uncooked pasta. Mix everything thoroughly to combine the ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the pasta: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Melt in the cheeses: Stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until fully melted and creamy. For extra richness, add a splash of milk and stir until incorporated.
- Season to taste: Add salt and pepper as needed to adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh cilantro or chopped green onions on top for a fresh, vibrant finish before serving.
Notes
- Ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
- For a dairy-free option, skip the cheese and milk or use plant-based alternatives.
- Adjust the amount of taco seasoning depending on your preferred spice level.
- Use any short pasta shape like rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni for best results.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
