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One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 38 reviews
  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 to 4.5 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Description

This One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta is a delicious and easy-to-make dinner combining seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and melty cheeses in a rich tomato-based sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this comforting dish brings the bold flavors of taco seasoning together with creamy cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese in a single pot for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Aromatics

  • 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 Dairy

  • 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)

Seasoning and Garnish

  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. 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 final dish.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions soften and the garlic is fragrant.
  3. Add Seasonings and Liquids: Stir in the taco seasoning, beef broth, diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato sauce, and uncooked pasta. Mix everything well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
  4. Simmer the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
  5. Melt the Cheeses: Stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy. For an extra creamy texture, add a splash of milk and stir well.
  6. Season to Taste: Season the dish with salt and pepper according to your preference, ensuring a balanced and flavorful meal.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the cheesy taco pasta with fresh cilantro or green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish before serving.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • Use water instead of broth for a lighter flavor, though broth adds more depth.
  • Adding milk enhances creaminess but is optional.
  • Any short pasta like penne, rotini, or macaroni works well.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated; add a splash of milk when reheating to maintain creaminess.

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Find it online: https://strickideen.com/one-pot-cheesy-taco-pasta-recipe/