This One Pot Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta is a fun twist on classic tacos! You get tender pasta mixed with tasty ground beef, savory spices, and lots of gooey cheese—all made in just one pot!
It’s like a party on your plate! I love how quick and easy it is, which means more time for family, friends, or maybe just binge-watching your favorite show. Who could resist such cheesy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I suggest using lean ground beef to reduce grease. You can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or even black beans or lentils for a meatless option.
Pasta: Rotini works great because its spirals capture the flavors well. If you don’t have it, penne, shells, or even whole wheat pasta are excellent choices. Just keep an eye on cooking times for different shapes!
Taco Seasoning: While a store-bought packet is convenient, you can make your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. This way, you can tweak the flavors to your liking!
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is classic, but feel free to swap with pepper jack for some heat or gouda for a smoky flavor. If you’re dairy-free, look for plant-based shreds that melt well.
How Do I Cook the Pasta Perfectly in One Pot?
The key to cooking pasta well in this recipe lies in the timing and liquid management. Here’s how to do it:
- After browning the meat and adding other ingredients, stir well to combine everything.
- Bringing it to a boil is crucial. Once boiling, reduce the heat to simmer to avoid overcooking.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, especially towards the end of cooking when the liquid reduces.
- Keep an eye on the pasta; you want it al dente, so a taste test a minute or two before the time is up helps!
Follow these tips, and you’ll have perfectly cooked pasta that absorbs all the taco flavors beautifully. Enjoy your cooking!
One Pot Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1.5 cups rotini or spiral pasta (uncooked)
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 1 packet (about 1 oz) taco seasoning mix (or homemade taco seasoning)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 15 minutes to cook, making it a quick meal at around 25 minutes total. Plus, since everything is cooked in one pot, you’ll save time on cleanup!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Aromatics:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Smell that goodness?
2. Browning the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the pot. Cook the beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked. Depending on how lean your beef is, you might need to drain off any excess fat. This will help keep your dish from being too greasy!
3. Adding Flavor:
Stir in the taco seasoning, mixing well to ensure the beef is evenly coated with all those delicious spices. This is where the magic begins!
4. The Pasta Goes In:
Now, add in the uncooked rotini, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Give everything a good stir to combine. This is going to make a hearty base for your pasta.
5. Cooking Time:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s done when the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed. Keep an eye on it to prevent sticking!
6. Cheese It Up:
Once the pasta is tender, remove the lid and sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the top. Cover the pot again for just a few minutes to let the cheese melt. Can you imagine that gooey goodness?
7. Final Touches:
Finally, taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. You can then garnish it with fresh chopped cilantro to add a pop of color and flavor before serving!
This dish is not only comforting and delicious but also simple, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Enjoy your tasty creation!
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Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken makes a fantastic substitute for ground beef. Just keep in mind that it may have a slightly different flavor and texture, but it’ll still be delicious!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Yes, you can use whole wheat pasta for added fiber. For a gluten-free option, just check for gluten-free rotini or your preferred pasta shape. Keep an eye on cooking times, as they may vary slightly.
What Toppings Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative with toppings! Some great options include diced avocado, sour cream, jalapeños, or even crushed tortilla chips for a nice crunch. Enjoy customizing your dish!
