If you are craving a dish that combines the comforting heartiness of pasta with the bold, vibrant flavors of taco seasoning, you have to try this One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe. It’s everything you love about tacos reimagined as a creamy, cheesy pasta packed with seasoned ground beef, melty cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, and a rich tomato base. Best of all, it’s made in just one pot, which means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick, satisfying, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients makes this recipe a total breeze to whip up. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering layers of flavor, creamy texture, and a colorful, inviting look to the dish.
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey): Provides a savory, meaty base that’s essential for the hearty flavor.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth as it softens with the beef.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant kick that enhances the taco spices.
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning): The bold blend of spices that turns this pasta into a taco-inspired delight.
- 2 cups beef broth (or water): Helps cook the pasta while infusing the dish with savory richness.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds vibrant color and a juicy, slightly tangy punch.
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce: Deepens the tomato flavor and creates a luscious sauce base.
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (such as rotini or penne): The perfect shape to hold onto all that cheesy, taco-seasoned goodness.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Brings sharpness and gooey meltiness.
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Adds creaminess and balances the cheddar’s tang.
- 1/2 cup milk (optional, for creaminess): Makes the sauce ultra-smooth and luscious if you want to take it up a notch.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings to round out all the stellar flavors.
- Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, herby brightness and a pop of green color.
How to Make One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Start by heating a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef and cook until it turns a beautiful golden brown, breaking it apart as it cooks for even cooking. Once browned, drain any excess grease to keep the dish from feeling too heavy.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together with the beef for 2 to 3 minutes until the onions soften and release their wonderful aroma. This step builds the flavor foundation that makes this One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe so irresistible.
Step 3: Combine Seasonings and Liquids
Now stir in the packet of taco seasoning, then pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato sauce, and uncooked pasta. Give everything a good mix to ensure the pasta is submerged and coated with all the tasty ingredients.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
Bring your mixture up to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally so the pasta cooks evenly and absorbs those rich, spicy tomato flavors.
Step 5: Add the Cheeses
Once the pasta is perfectly tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, stir in both the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. They will melt quickly into a creamy, cheesy sauce that coats every bite in cheesy goodness. Pour in a splash of milk if you want your pasta extra creamy and indulgent.
Step 6: Season to Taste
Finish off by seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. This simple step lets you tailor the flavor balance exactly how you like it, ensuring every mouthful is spot-on delicious.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Top your One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta with freshly chopped cilantro or sliced green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish that adds a bit of crunch and color contrast.
How to Serve One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like cilantro or green onions are fantastic for adding a bright herbal note that complements the rich, cheesy pasta. For an extra touch, sprinkle some crushed tortilla chips or a dollop of sour cream to mimic classic taco toppings.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but if you want to round out your meal, try serving it alongside a simple green salad with a zesty lime vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables. Either will add freshness and balance the richness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pasta in individual small cast-iron skillets or colorful bowls to keep the cheesy warmth intact. You might also offer a toppings bar with chopped tomatoes, jalapeños, avocado slices, and extra cheese, so everyone can customize their serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta stores really well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cool it completely before sealing to maintain the best texture and freshness.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that cheese-based dishes sometimes change texture slightly after freezing, but reheating gently usually restores much of the creaminess.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce and keep it creamy. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between for even heating and the best flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap out the ground beef for your favorite plant-based ground meat or add beans like black beans or pinto beans to maintain that hearty texture and plenty of protein.
What pasta shapes work best for this One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe?
Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni are ideal because they hold sauce well and cook evenly in one pot.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Definitely! Try a blend of mozzarella and pepper jack for a different cheese profile. Just choose cheeses that melt well for the creamiest result.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cheese alternatives and substitute milk with a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk to keep it creamy without dairy.
How spicy is the dish?
The spice level depends on the taco seasoning you use. For a milder dish, opt for a mild taco seasoning or reduce the amount, and add heat later with jalapeños or hot sauce if desired.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe is a total game-changer for weeknight dinners. It’s easy, quick, and delivers a crowd-pleasing combo of cheesy comfort and bold taco flavors all in one dish. Whether you’re feeding family or impressing friends, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe rotation. Give it a go and enjoy every cozy, cheesy bite!
Print
One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
A flavorful and easy one-pot cheesy taco pasta recipe that combines ground beef, taco seasoning, tomatoes, and melted cheeses for a creamy and comforting meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Meat 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
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup milk (optional, for creaminess)
Pasta and Cheese
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (such as rotini or penne)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: 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 excess fat in the dish.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the browned beef and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes fragrant.
- Add Seasonings, Liquids, and Pasta: Stir in the taco seasoning, beef broth, diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato sauce, and uncooked pasta. Mix everything thoroughly to combine the flavors.
- Simmer the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Melt the Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until they melt fully and the sauce becomes creamy. For added creaminess, stir in a splash of milk if desired.
- Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper as needed, adjusting the seasoning according to your preference.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions before serving for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the meat with beans or a plant-based ground substitute and use vegetable broth.
- Adding milk is optional but enhances the creaminess of the dish.
- Use your favorite pasta shape; rotini or penne works best to hold the sauce.
- For extra spice, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
