Taco Pasta One-Pot Recipe: Delicious and Simple Dinner in 30 Minutes

This Taco Pasta One-Pot Recipe is a quick and easy dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights.

In just 30 minutes, you can have a flavourful dish that combines pasta shells, ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy taco sauce—all in one pot.

This recipe is a fantastic option for those who crave a Mexican-inspired pasta dish that’s simple to make and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Taco Pasta Recipe

This Taco Pasta recipe is more than just a quick meal; it’s a comforting, one-pot dinner that combines the best of tacos and pasta.

The creamy sauce and perfectly cooked pasta shells offer a rich, savoury experience that both kids and adults love. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this one-pot wonder will impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 lb. Ground Beef (85% lean)
1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese (shredded)
4 oz. Velveeta Cheese (cubed or substitute with ¾ cup shredded cheese)
1 Tablespoon Butter
2 cloves Garlic (minced)
1 oz. Taco Seasoning Packet
1 Tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
2 Tablespoons Tomato Paste
1 cup Beef Broth
1 cup Chicken Broth
1 cup Whole Milk (room temperature)
1 (10 oz.) can Rotel Tomatoes with Green Chilies (undrained)
½ lb. Medium Pasta Shells

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Taco Pasta

1. Prepare the Ground Beef

Begin by cooking and crumbling the ground beef over medium-high heat in a large pot or Dutch oven. Once browned, drain the grease.

2. Add Butter and Garlic

In the same pot, melt the butter, add the minced garlic, and cook for about 1 minute to release its aroma.

3. Add the Remaining Ingredients

Add in the taco seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, chicken broth, whole milk, and Rotel tomatoes. Stir well to mix everything evenly.

4. Incorporate the Pasta Shells

Add the pasta shells, making sure they’re fully submerged in the sauce. Cover the pot and let it cook according to the package instructions for al dente pasta.

5. Stir in the Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, turn the heat to low. Gradually add the cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Velveeta cheese, stirring until it melts and forms a creamy sauce.

Tips for the Best Taco Pasta

More Sauce: If you love saucy pasta, feel free to add more than ½ lb. of pasta.
Flexible Cheese Options: Monterey Jack and Mozzarella work well in this recipe.
Broth Choice: Use all chicken broth or all beef broth depending on your preference.
Pasta Variations: Try rotini, penne, or bow tie pasta for a twist.
Protein Options: Substitute ground beef with shredded chicken for a lighter alternative.

How to Serve Taco Pasta

This creamy Taco Pasta is delicious served hot and topped with fresh garnishes. Try adding diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or chopped cilantro for a burst of flavour.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep it creamy.

Additional Recipe Variations

Looking to experiment? Try these Taco Pasta variations for new flavour profiles:

Add Veggies: Mix in black beans, corn, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne or a few slices of jalapeño for extra heat.
Taco Shell Crumble: Sprinkle crumbled tortilla chips on top for added crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions About Taco Pasta

What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use shredded chicken, turkey, or even plant-based ground meat as a substitute.

Can I make Taco Pasta without cheese?

Yes, skip the cheese if needed; the taco seasoning and broth will still provide rich flavour.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has mild spice from the taco seasoning. Add or reduce spice by adjusting ingredients like jalapeños or cayenne pepper.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely. Rotini, penne, and bow tie pasta all work well in this recipe.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and check that your taco seasoning and other ingredients are gluten-free.

Reference Links

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Taco Pasta One-Pot Recipe: Delicious and Simple Dinner in 30 Minutes