One Pot Beef Taco Pasta

Name: One Pot Beef Taco Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup salsa; 1 cup water; 8 oz uncooked pasta shells or elbow macaroni; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup sour cream; Optional toppings: chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, fresh cilantro

Isabella

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A quick and flavorful One Pot Beef Taco Pasta dish combining the zesty flavors of tacos with hearty pasta for a satisfying weeknight dinner. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that brings together comfort food and bold Tex-Mex flair in just one pot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe for its simplicity and big flavors. Everything cooks in a single pot, saving time on cleanup. The combination of beef, taco seasoning, and creamy cheese creates a rich, comforting meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when I want something hearty and flavorful without much fuss.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound ground beef

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning

2 cups beef broth

1 cup salsa

1 cup water

8 oz uncooked pasta shells or elbow macaroni

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup sour cream

Optional toppings: chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, fresh cilantro

Directions

Cook the Beef:
In a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat, I cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Then I drain any excess fat. I add the minced garlic and taco seasoning, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Add the Liquids and Pasta:
I stir in the beef broth, salsa, and water, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Then i add the uncooked pasta, making sure it is submerged in the liquid. I cover and let it cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.

Finish with Cheese and Sour Cream:
Reducing the heat to low, I stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream until it melts and creates a creamy texture.

Serve:
Once removed from heat, I garnish the dish with optional toppings like green onions, diced tomatoes, or fresh cilantro before serving warm.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Protein Swap: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef for a lighter option.

Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or use a spicy salsa for extra heat.

Cheese Options: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend.

Vegetarian: Replace the beef with black beans or a plant-based ground meat alternative.

Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: To reheat, I warm the pasta gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it creamy. Microwaving in short bursts while stirring also works well.

FAQs

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

I use gluten-free pasta and ensure that the taco seasoning is certified gluten-free.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare it up to the point of adding the cheese and sour cream, then store it. When reheating, I stir in the cheese and sour cream for a fresh, creamy texture.

What type of pasta works best?

I prefer using small pasta shapes like shells or elbow macaroni, as they cook quickly and hold the sauce well.

Can I freeze this dish?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, I freeze it in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How can I make this dish healthier?

I use lean ground beef, low-sodium broth, and reduced-fat cheese and sour cream for a lighter version.

Conclusion

This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta is a delicious and convenient meal that combines the best of taco night and pasta night into one dish. It’s creamy, flavorful, and ready in just 30 minutes, making it a go-to option for busy evenings. With easy customization options and minimal cleanup, it’s a recipe I keep coming back to. Give it a try, and enjoy a satisfying dinner with minimal effort.