One Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe

One Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe coock within 30 minute

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey for lighter option)
  • 12 oz (340g) elbow pasta (or small shells)
  • 1 packet (1.25 oz/35g) taco seasoning (or 3 tbsp homemade blend)
  • 2 cups (480ml) beef broth
  • 1 can (15 oz/425g) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 cup (240ml) water
  • 1 cup (120g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup (120g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • Optional toppings: Sour cream, diced avocado, cilantro, crushed tortilla chips

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef

  • In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium heat until no pink remains. Drain excess fat.

2. Season & Simmer

  • Stir in taco seasoningdiced tomatoesbrothwater, and pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

3. Cook the Pasta

  • Cover and simmer 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and liquid is absorbed.

4. Add Cheese

  • Remove from heat. Stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and creamy.

5. Serve

  • Top with avocado, sour cream, or crushed chips. Serve immediately

Extra Tips

✅ Vegetarian Option: Swap beef for 2 cups cooked lentils or black beans.
✅ Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure broth/seasoning are GF.
✅ Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
✅ Extra Veggies: Toss in 1 cup frozen corn or spinach with the pasta.

FAQ's

Q: Can I use chicken instead of beef?
A: Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken works great add it with the broth.

Q: How to store leftovers?
A: Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth to keep creamy.

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Prep the meat and seasoning mix in advance. Cook pasta fresh for best texture.

Q: Substitute for taco seasoning?
A: Mix 1 tbsp chili powder + 1 tsp cumin + ½ tsp garlic powder + ½ tsp paprika.

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