Easy One Pot Taco Pasta Recipe

Feb 23, 2025 by Tania Sheff · This post may contain affiliate links

This quick and easy one-pot Taco Pasta recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. With simple ingredients and a delicious mix of flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

When it comes to comfort food, nothing hits the spot quite like a dish that blends bold flavors with creamy, cheesy goodness. Enter taco pasta, a delightful fusion of Tex-Mex and Italian cuisine that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. This one-pot meal is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep and cleanup. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal to please a crowd, taco pasta is the answer.

Video Tutorial for this recipe

The Beauty of Taco Pasta

This cheesy taco pasta is the perfect balance of savory lean ground beef, tender pasta, and zesty taco seasoning, all coated in a creamy sauce. The combination of beef broth and tomato paste creates a rich base, while the melted cheddar cheese adds a luscious texture that brings everything together. The best part? It’s a one-pot dish, meaning you won’t have to drain the pasta and worry about washing multiple pans after dinner. Plus, it’s an incredibly versatile recipe that can be adjusted to suit your preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. 

Follow my simple step-by-step instructions and make this delicious meal today!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
• 3 cups (10 ounces) medium shell pasta  (you can use other pasta types, such as rotini, elbow macaroni, bows, etc.)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• salt, if needed (depending on how much sodium your taco seasoning and beef broth have).

How to make Taco Pasta

1. In a large pan or deep skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes, or until the beef is fully browned and the onion has softened. Using a wooden spoon break the beef into pieces as it cooks.

2. Stir in the taco seasoning, tomato paste, beef broth, and water. Mix well, cover, and bring to a boil.

3. Once boiling, add the dry pasta and lower the heat to medium. Stir occasionally, cooking for 10-13 minutes or until the pasta is tender and the liquid has reduced.

4. Remove from heat and mix in the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until melted and evenly combined.

Recipe Variations

One of the great things about taco pasta is how easily it can be adapted to different tastes and dietary needs. Here are a few variations you might want to try:

• Protein Swaps: Instead of ground beef, try using ground turkey, ground chicken, or even a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Different Cheeses: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can mix in Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a smoky gouda for a unique twist.
• Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, diced tomatoes, black beans, or corn to increase the nutritional value and enhance the texture.
• Spice it Up: If you like extra heat, toss in diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, chili powder, or a splash of hot sauce. You may also add some of your favorite spices such as cumin, garlic powder, or paprika to enhance the flavor to your liking.
• Creamier Texture: Stir in a spoonful of sour cream or cream cheese at the end for an extra creamy consistency.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta, if you follow a GF diet.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Taco Pasta

• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-packaged shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the sauce. For the best melt, grate your own cheese.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta continues to absorb liquid even after you remove the pan from the heat, be mindful not to overcook it during the simmering process.
• Adjust Liquid as Needed: Depending on your preferred pasta texture, you may need to add a little more broth or water if the mixture becomes too thick before the pasta is fully cooked.
• Make It a One-Pot Wonder: Using a deep, wide pan or Dutch oven will help ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.

Serving Suggestions

Taco pasta is a complete meal on its own, but you can enhance the experience with a few simple additions:

• Garnishes: Top with freshly chopped cilantro, diced avocado, sliced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.
• Crunch Factor: Serve with tortilla chips or crispy nacho strips on the side for a delightful crunch.
• Side Dishes: A fresh green salad, Mexican-style rice, or roasted vegetables make excellent accompaniments.
• Toppings Bar: If you’re serving a crowd, set up a toppings bar with options like olives, jalapeños, salsa, and guacamole so everyone can customize their plate.

How to store and reheat Taco Pasta

If you have leftovers (which is rare because this dish is so delicious!), proper storage will ensure your taco pasta remains just as tasty the next day.

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Let it cool completely, and transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. 
• Reheating: Warm up leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to maintain the creamy consistency. You can also reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each session.

Taco pasta is the ultimate comfort meal—easy, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you stick to the original recipe or experiment with new ingredients, this dish is sure to become a staple in your household. So the next time you’re craving something hearty, cheesy, and satisfying, give this taco pasta a try. Your taste buds will thank you! Kids love it, too!

Please note, that nutrition info is located inside the recipe card below. Follow me on Pinterest, Instagram, or Facebook to share photos of your creations! I love to see what you cook!

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