This One Pot Taco Pasta is a fun and easy dish that brings the flavors of tacos to your dinner table! It combines pasta, seasoned ground beef, and yummy cheese, all cooked in one pot.
Trust me, the clean-up is a breeze, and you get to enjoy every cheesy, spicy bite. I like to pile on fresh toppings like avocado and salsa for a little extra kick. Enjoy it with friends for a taco night twist!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: While I often use ground beef for its flavor, ground turkey is a great substitute for a leaner option. You could also try ground chicken or even a veggie alternative like lentils for a meatless meal.
Onion: A medium onion adds a lot of flavor. If you’re not an onion fan, you could skip it or use green onions for a milder taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic really boosts the dish. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder as an alternative.
Taco Seasoning: I like using store-bought taco seasoning for convenience, but feel free to make your own with spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika if you’re looking to customize the flavors!
Pasta: Shells work well, but any pasta shapes you have on hand can work too. Just keep an eye on the cooking times, as different shapes may require varying cooking times.
Heavy Cream: This is optional, but it adds nice creaminess. If you’d prefer a lighter version, you can substitute with low-fat milk or even skip it altogether!
How Can I Ensure the Pasta Cooks Just Right?
Cooking pasta in the same pot as the other ingredients can be tricky, but it’s easy with a few tips. Make sure to watch the timing and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Here’s how:
- Ensure your pasta is submerged in the liquid; this helps with even cooking.
- Check the pasta a couple of minutes before the suggested time on the package to avoid overcooking.
- If the pot looks dry, add a splash of broth or water to keep it from burning and help the pasta cook perfectly.
How to Make One Pot Taco Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz pasta shells (or any pasta of choice)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for creaminess)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook. So, in just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pot and cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked. Be sure to drain any excess fat. This helps keep your dish from being greasy!
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic into the pot with the browned meat. Stir gently and sauté until the onions become translucent. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes and will add great flavor!
3. Add Taco Seasoning:
Now, it’s time to spice things up! Stir in the taco seasoning and let it cook for an additional minute. This helps to toast the spices a little, making your dish even tastier.
4. Pour in Tomatoes and Broth:
Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (with all the delicious juice) and the chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. You’ll start to smell that fantastic taco aroma!
5. Cook the Pasta:
Time to add the pasta! Stir it into the pot, ensuring it’s well mixed with the other ingredients. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Make it Creamy:
Once the pasta is cooked, lower the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream (if you’re using it) and shredded cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is melted and everything is nice and creamy!
7. Season and Serve:
Give your dish a taste and add salt and pepper as needed. When you’re ready to serve, dish up the pasta hot and garnish it with fresh cilantro or parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Enjoy your hearty and flavorful One Pot Taco Pasta! It’s a big hit for both kids and adults alike!
Can I Substitute Ground Turkey for Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative to beef and will still give you a delicious dish. Just make sure to cook it until it’s no longer pink, as turkey can be leaner and may require a little extra care to avoid dryness.
What If I Don’t Have Taco Seasoning?
No worries! You can easily make your own taco seasoning using a mix of spices. Combine 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon of cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Adjust to your taste, and sprinkle it into the meat while cooking!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Yes! You can substitute pasta shells with any pasta you have on hand, such as penne, rotini, or macaroni. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the type of pasta you choose.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen it, or microwave until heated through. Enjoy it again as a quick meal!
