This One Pot Taco Pasta is a simple and tasty meal that brings all the flavors of tacos into one creamy dish. With pasta, ground beef, cheese, and taco seasoning, it’s a crowd-pleaser!
Cooking is super easy because everything happens in one pot! I love how quickly I can have dinner ready, leaving more time for my favorite part—eating! 🌮🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the base for your taco flavor. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you’re vegetarian, try using lentils or crumbled tofu seasoned with taco spices.
Bell Pepper: Any color works, but red bell peppers add sweetness. If bell peppers aren’t available, you can skip them or use frozen mixed peppers instead—they cook up nicely!
Pasta: Rotini is great for holding onto the sauce, but any short pasta like penne or fusilli will do. Whole wheat pasta is a healthier alternative, just keep an eye on the cooking time.
Taco Seasoning: A packet is convenient, but homemade is easy! Mix cumin, paprika, chili powder, and oregano for a fresh taste. Adjust the spices to your liking!
Cheese: I love cheddar, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for extra flavor. Vegan cheese can work too if you’re dairy-free!
How Do I Get My One Pot Taco Pasta to Cook Perfectly?
The cooking process is key to getting that delicious, creamy texture without burning anything. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by thoroughly browning the beef, as this adds great flavor. Make sure to break it up well to avoid clumps.
- After adding the veggies, keep an eye on them. You want them soft but not mushy. Aim for about 3-4 minutes on medium heat.
- Add all the liquid and pasta at once to maximize cooking. Make sure the pasta is submerged in liquid for even cooking.
- Cover your pot while simmering to trap steam, which helps cook the pasta faster. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning on the bottom.
- Once the pasta is done, sprinkle the cheese on top and cover again. Let it gently melt for a few minutes for that perfect gooey finish!
Follow these steps and you’ll have a tasty one pot taco pasta that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
One Pot Taco Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel)
- 2 1/2 cups beef broth (or water)
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious One Pot Taco Pasta takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 15-20 minutes to cook. In just around 30-35 minutes, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to enjoy—perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks to ensure even browning.
2. Add the Vegetables:
Next, toss in the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté everything together until the vegetables are softened, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Enjoy the lovely aromas as they cook!
3. Stir in the Seasoning:
Now it’s time to stir in the taco seasoning. Give it a quick cook for about 1 minute; this will help release all those delicious taco flavors!
4. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Time to add the uncooked rotini pasta, the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices), the black beans (if you’re using them), and the beef broth. Stir everything well to combine the ingredients.
5. Cook the Pasta:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and cover the pot with a lid. Let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Melt the Cheese:
Once the pasta is cooked, lower the heat again and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover the pot to let the cheese melt, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the pot from the heat. Garnish your One Pot Taco Pasta with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve warm and enjoy this easy, flavorful dish!
Your One Pot Taco Pasta combines vibrant taco flavors with comforting pasta, making it a simple yet satisfying meal that’s sure to please!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef and works well in this recipe. Just be mindful that it may be slightly less flavorful, so you might want to add a touch more taco seasoning.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and substituting it with cooked lentils, crumbled tofu, or tempeh. You might also want to add extra veggies for flavor and texture!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it up gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Definitely! While rotini is perfect for this recipe, you can use any short pasta like penne or fusilli. Just keep an eye on the cooking time since different pasta shapes may cook at different rates.
