Name: One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 packet taco seasoning; 2 cups beef broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup tomato sauce; 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or rotini); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup corn (optional); ½ cup black beans (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish

There's nothing quite like the irresistible combination of tacos and pasta, all wrapped up in one cheesy, comforting dish. This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta is packed with bold flavors, tender pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that brings everything together beautifully.

I first made this dish on a busy weeknight when I was craving tacos but needed something quick and satisfying. It quickly became a family favorite, thanks to its minimal prep and easy cleanup. Best of all, everything cooks in just one pot, making it the ultimate go-to meal for busy evenings.

Why You'll Love This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta

Get ready to fall in love with a meal that checks all the boxes—flavorful, easy, and incredibly satisfying.

First off, it's quick and easy. With only 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for those nights when time is short but you still want a homemade meal.

It's also budget-friendly. Made with simple pantry staples like ground beef, pasta, taco seasoning, and cheese, this dish delivers big flavors without breaking the bank.

Plus, it's family-friendly. Kids and adults alike love the cheesy, taco-inspired flavors, and you can easily customize it with your favorite toppings.

Finally, this recipe is a one-pot wonder. That means fewer dishes to wash and more time to enjoy your meal!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients, all working together to create the perfect taco-inspired pasta.

Ground beef forms the hearty base of this dish. I recommend using lean ground beef (80/20) for the best balance of flavor and texture. If you prefer, you can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Pasta plays a crucial role in soaking up all the delicious taco flavors. I love using medium shells or rotini because their shape holds the sauce beautifully, but you can also use penne or elbow macaroni.

Taco seasoning brings all the essential Tex-Mex flavors to the dish. You can use a store-bought packet or make your own blend using chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

Tomato sauce and diced tomatoes add richness and depth to the sauce. The combination of these ingredients ensures a perfect balance of acidity and sweetness.

Cheese is the finishing touch that brings everything together. Shredded cheddar or a Mexican blend melts perfectly into the pasta, making it creamy and extra delicious.

How To Make This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta

Creating this mouthwatering meal is as simple as tossing everything into one pot and letting the flavors meld together. Here's how it comes together:

Start by heating a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil and brown your ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once fully browned, drain any excess grease.

Next, stir in your taco seasoning, mixing well to coat the beef in all those bold spices. Let it cook for about a minute to enhance the flavors before adding the liquids.

Pour in your tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth, stirring to combine. Then, add in your uncooked pasta, making sure it's submerged in the liquid.

Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer, covered, for about 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the pasta cooks evenly and absorbs all the delicious flavors.

Once the pasta is tender, stir in your cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce for a creamy, cheesy finish. If you like it extra cheesy, sprinkle a bit more on top and let it melt before serving.

Storage Options

This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

For the fridge, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days.

To freeze, place portions in freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating is simple—just warm it up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to tweak it based on your preferences and dietary needs.

For a lighter version, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You can also use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for a healthier twist.

Want to make it spicier? Add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of hot sauce to amp up the heat.

If you prefer a creamier sauce, stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese at the end for a velvety finish.

Looking for extra veggies? Toss in bell peppers, corn, or black beans to add more texture and nutrients to the dish.

No matter how you customize it, this One Pot Beef Taco Pasta is sure to be a hit. Enjoy experimenting and making it your own!