One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like the bold, zesty flavors of a classic beef taco, but what if you could enjoy all that goodness in a creamy, cheesy pasta dish? This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta is the perfect combination of Tex-Mex spice and comforting pasta, all cooked in a single pot for an effortless meal. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, this dish is a lifesaver on busy weeknights.

I first made this recipe on a whim when I was craving tacos but only had pasta in the pantry. The result? A rich, flavorful dish that quickly became a household favorite. Now, it's our go-to meal whenever we need something quick, hearty, and absolutely delicious.

Why You'll Love This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta

Get ready to add a new family favorite to your dinner rotation! This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta is packed with flavor and so easy to make.

First off, it's incredibly quick and easy. Everything cooks in one pot, which means less hassle and fewer dishes to wash. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a satisfying, home-cooked meal on the table.

It's also budget-friendly. With just ground beef, pasta, canned tomatoes, and a few pantry staples, this dish is an affordable way to feed a hungry family without sacrificing flavor.

Love bold, Tex-Mex flavors? This recipe delivers! The combination of taco seasoning, juicy beef, and creamy cheese gives you that classic taco taste in every bite.

Lastly, it’s versatile. You can customize it to your liking—swap out the protein, add extra veggies, or spice it up with jalapeños. This dish is perfect for making your own.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this One Pot Beef Taco Pasta lies in its simple ingredients, each bringing a delicious layer of flavor.

Ground beef is the star of the dish, adding rich, meaty flavor. I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the best balance of taste and texture. If you prefer, you can swap it out for ground turkey or chicken.

Taco seasoning is what gives this dish its signature Tex-Mex flair. You can use store-bought packets for convenience, but if you have time, homemade taco seasoning lets you control the spice level and sodium content.

Pasta acts as the perfect base, soaking up all the delicious flavors. Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or shells work best, as they hold the sauce beautifully.

Diced tomatoes with green chilies bring acidity and a mild kick of heat. If you prefer a milder dish, plain diced tomatoes work just as well.

Cheese is what makes this pasta dish extra comforting. Cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend melts beautifully into the sauce, creating a creamy, cheesy finish.

You’ll also need a large pot or deep skillet to cook everything in one go—no extra dishes needed!

How To Make This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta

Making this One Pot Beef Taco Pasta is as easy as it gets. Follow these simple steps for a flavorful, no-fuss meal.

Start by heating a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little oil, then toss in the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once it's fully cooked, drain any excess grease if necessary.

Next, stir in the taco seasoning and let it cook for about a minute. This step helps bloom the spices, making the flavors deeper and more intense.

Pour in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, pasta, and broth or water. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, stir in the cheese. The heat will melt it into the dish, creating a rich and creamy texture. If you want an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle more cheese on top and let it melt before serving.

In just 30 minutes, your pasta is ready to serve! Garnish with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or some sliced jalapeños for an added kick.

Storage Options

Got leftovers? This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta stores beautifully for quick and easy meals later on.

For refrigeration, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.

If you’d like to freeze it, portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. You can also reheat it on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen up the sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta is endlessly customizable! Here are some fun variations to try.

Want a leaner option? Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. It’s just as flavorful but lighter.

For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also use hot taco seasoning for extra heat.

Looking for extra veggies? Stir in bell peppers, corn, or black beans for added texture and nutrition. They blend seamlessly with the dish while making it even heartier.

If you're dairy-free, simply omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative. The pasta will still be deliciously seasoned and satisfying.

For a gluten-free version, use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your taco seasoning is gluten-free.

No matter how you make it, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own!

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