One Pot Taco Pasta Recipe

This One Pot Taco Pasta is the perfect blend of cheesy comfort food and bold Tex-Mex flavors. With tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this dish delivers everything you love about tacos in an easy, one-pan meal.

It’s a quick, family-friendly dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes. Since everything cooks in one pot, cleanup is effortless, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal to feed a crowd or an easy dinner with minimal prep, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan convenience – Fewer dishes to wash.
• Fast and easy – Ready in about 30 minutes.
• Full of flavor – Tastes just like tacos but in pasta form.
• Customizable – Adjust the heat, swap the protein, or add more veggies.

Preparation & Tools Needed

Essential Tools

• Large skillet or deep pan – To cook everything in one pot.
• Wooden spoon – For stirring and breaking up the meat.
• Measuring cups & spoons – To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.

Preparation Tips

• Chop vegetables ahead of time to make cooking smoother.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and creaminess.
• Measure out all ingredients before starting to keep things organized.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon oil (olive or vegetable)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust based on broth sodium level)
• ½ teaspoon cumin

Liquids

• 2 ¼ cups low sodium beef broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup tomato sauce

Pasta & Cheese

• 3 cups uncooked pasta (lumaconi, shellbows, macaroni, or small shells – about 240g)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Sauté the Vegetables

• Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the oil.
• Add the diced onion and chopped bell pepper.
• Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.

2. Cook the Beef & Spices

• Add the ground beef, taco seasoning, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and cumin.
• Cook, breaking up the meat, until browned and fully cooked.
• If necessary, drain excess fat to prevent a greasy sauce.

3. Add Liquids & Pasta

• Stir in the beef broth, heavy cream, and tomato sauce.
• Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
• Stir in the uncooked pasta, cover, and reduce heat to medium-low.
• Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.

4. Melt in the Cheese & Serve

• Remove the lid and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
• Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
• Serve hot and enjoy.

Notes & Variations

• Add extra veggies – Stir in zucchini, corn, or spinach for added nutrients.
• Swap the protein – Use ground turkey, chicken, or black beans for a different twist.
• Make it spicy – Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce for extra heat.
• Use different pasta – Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or shells work well.
• Lower the calories – Substitute Greek yogurt for the heavy cream.

This one pot taco pasta is packed with flavor and easy to customize. With minimal cleanup and a short cooking time, it’s a great go-to meal when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with One Pot Taco Pasta

This One Pot Taco Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can enhance the flavors and add variety to your dinner. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread

A warm, crispy slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the cheesy, flavorful sauce. Try a classic garlic butter spread or add a sprinkle of parmesan for extra richness.

2. Mexican Street Corn (Elote)

Grilled Mexican street corn topped with cotija cheese, lime juice, and chili powder adds a smoky, tangy contrast to the creamy pasta. You can also serve it as a corn salad for easier eating.

3. Simple Green Salad

A light and refreshing salad balances out the richness of the pasta. Toss together crisp lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocado with a zesty lime vinaigrette or a simple ranch dressing.

4. Guacamole & Tortilla Chips

A side of homemade guacamole with crunchy tortilla chips adds a fresh, creamy element to the meal. The combination of avocado, lime, and cilantro complements the taco flavors perfectly.

5. Sautéed Vegetables

For an easy way to add more veggies, serve a side of sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, and onions. A quick toss in olive oil with a pinch of salt and cumin keeps the flavors in harmony with the dish.

6. Avocado Slices

For a quick, no-prep side, sliced avocado drizzled with lime juice and a pinch of salt makes a great cooling contrast to the bold flavors of the taco pasta.

7. Pickled Jalapeños

If you love extra heat, pickled jalapeños add a tangy, spicy kick. Serve them on the side or mix a few slices into the pasta for a more intense flavor.

8. Refried Beans

A scoop of creamy refried beans is a classic Tex-Mex side that pairs well with taco pasta. It adds a bit of extra protein and a comforting, hearty texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

1. Overcooking the Pasta

Since the pasta cooks in the sauce, it’s important to check it a few minutes before the recommended time. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and remove from heat as soon as it’s al dente.

2. Using Pre-Shredded Cheese

Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of the sauce. For the best texture, always use freshly shredded cheddar or a blend of cheeses.

3. Adding All the Cheese at Once

If you dump in all the cheese at once, it may clump together instead of melting evenly. Instead, stir it in gradually, allowing each portion to melt before adding more.

4. Not Adjusting the Salt

Since beef broth and taco seasoning both contain salt, it’s important to taste before adding extra. If you’re using regular (not low-sodium) broth, reduce or omit the added salt.

5. Forgetting to Drain Excess Fat

If using a higher-fat ground beef, drain off any excess grease after browning the meat. This prevents the dish from becoming too oily and ensures a smoother sauce.

6. Skipping the Simmering Step

Allowing the broth, cream, and tomato sauce to simmer before adding pasta helps develop the flavors. Skipping this step can result in a more diluted taste.

7. Not Stirring the Pasta Enough

Since the pasta cooks directly in the sauce, it’s important to stir every few minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

8. Overloading with Spices at the Start

Taco seasoning is already flavorful, so it’s best to start with the recommended amount. You can always add more seasoning at the end if needed.

Pro Tips to Elevate the Dish

Use Different Proteins – Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even chorizo for a different twist. A vegetarian version can be made with black beans or plant-based crumbles.

Add More Heat – If you love spicy food, mix in chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra chili powder for an extra kick.

Try a Cheese Blend – While cheddar is great, using a mix of pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or queso quesadilla cheese can add more depth of flavor.

Make it Creamier – For an even richer sauce, stir in a small amount of cream cheese or sour cream at the end.

Use Gluten-Free Pasta – If you need a gluten-free option, substitute with chickpea or rice-based pasta. Adjust the cooking time as needed since gluten-free pasta can cook differently.

Expert Tips for the Best One Pot Taco Pasta

Use the Right Pasta

Short pasta shapes like macaroni, rotini, or shells work best because they hold onto the sauce well. If using a different type of pasta, adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Simmer for Maximum Flavor

Allowing the broth, cream, and tomato sauce to simmer for a few minutes before adding the pasta helps develop a deeper, richer flavor.

Balance the Seasoning

Taco seasoning can vary in saltiness, especially if using a store-bought blend. Taste before adding extra salt to avoid an overly salty dish.

Stir Regularly

Since the pasta cooks directly in the sauce, stir every few minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Adjust the Heat Level

If you prefer a milder dish, use a mild taco seasoning. For extra heat, add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Instructions

• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or heavy cream and heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until hot. Add a little milk or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! This pasta stores and reheats well, making it a great meal prep option. The flavors even develop more after sitting in the fridge.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni work well, but cooking times may vary slightly.

How do I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and check that your taco seasoning is gluten-free. Most brands contain thickeners that may have gluten.

What cheese works best?

Cheddar is a classic choice, but you can also use pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for extra flavor.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes! Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free version.

Can I make this vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for black beans, lentils, or a plant-based ground meat substitute.

How can I make it spicier?

To add more heat, mix in red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a few dashes of hot sauce. You can also use a spicier taco seasoning blend.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely. Corn, zucchini, spinach, or diced tomatoes all make great additions to this dish.

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Conclusion

This One Pot Taco Pasta is the perfect blend of bold flavors, creamy texture, and hearty ingredients. It’s quick to make, easy to clean up, and completely customizable to suit your taste. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Try it today and enjoy a delicious, cheesy, and satisfying taco-inspired pasta dinner in just 30 minutes.