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If you’re looking for comfort food that delivers serious flavor with minimal fuss, this One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine tender shell pasta swimming in a rich, cheesy sauce that’s bursting with bold taco spices and savory ground beef, all cooked together in one pot for easy cleanup. This dish combines your favorite taco flavors with creamy, gooey cheese in the most effortless way possible, making it perfect for busy weeknights or any time you crave a satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug. Get ready to add a new family favorite to your dinner rotation that’s as simple as it is delicious!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the simplest yet most flavorful ingredients is key to making this One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe shine. Each component plays a critical role—from the spices that bring that signature taco kick, to the cheeses that melt into creamy perfection, every ingredient contributes to the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides a hearty and savory protein base packed with flavor.
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin: Adds warm, smoky notes that define the taco profile.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried minced onion: Delivers subtle sweetness and depth without the need for fresh chopping.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder: Brings an aromatic punch that complements the meat and sauce perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrates rich tomato flavor and helps thicken the sauce beautifully.
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel preferred): Adds a zesty, slightly spicy kick along with vibrant color.
- 1 cup beef broth: Deepens the savory flavor and keeps the pasta moist.
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk: Gives the sauce its creamy texture and helps melt the cheese smoothly.
- 1 cup water: Balances the liquid so the pasta cooks just right without getting mushy.
- 8 ounces shell pasta: Perfectly sized pasta shells that hold onto sauce and cheese for each bite.
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded: Melts to a silky, mild creaminess that blends wonderfully with stronger cheddar.
- 1 cup mild cheddar cheese, shredded: Adds sharpness and a rich golden color to the cheesy blend.
How to Make One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef with Spices
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and adding the ground beef. Sprinkle in the cumin, dried minced onion, and garlic powder. Brown the beef, stirring occasionally until it’s cooked through and nicely crumbled. This step releases the deep, smoky taco flavors that form the foundation of your dish. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the dish rich but not greasy.
Step 2: Build the Sauce Base
Next, stir in the tomato paste and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Pour in the beef broth along with 1 cup of whole milk for creaminess. Combining these ingredients now allows the tomato paste to deepen in flavor while the broth and milk create a luscious base that will cook the pasta and melt the cheese to perfection. Bring everything gently to a boil over medium-high heat, sparking that comforting aroma of taco spices mixed with creamy tomato goodness.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta in the Sauce
Add the shell pasta directly into the simmering sauce. Lower the heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and cooked through—usually about 8 to 10 minutes. This method lets the pasta absorb all those delicious flavors rather than rinsing away in plain water, so each bite bursts with cheesy, savory goodness.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheeses
Once the pasta is perfectly cooked, reduce the heat to low and gradually add both the Monterey Jack and mild cheddar cheeses, stirring until fully melted and creamy. The combination of these two cheeses creates a harmonious blend of mild and sharp flavors that makes the whole dish irresistibly cheesy and ultra comforting. Mix well until everything is evenly combined into a luscious cheesy taco pasta.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
This dish is best enjoyed fresh and hot right out of the pot. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with taco-seasoned beef that your whole family will adore. Grab your favorite bowls and dig in while the cheese is still gooey and warm!
How to Serve One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe to the next level, add fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream. These bright and creamy toppings contrast beautifully with the rich, cheesy pasta and bring freshness that balances the dish perfectly. A squeeze of lime juice can also add a zesty pop that makes every bite even more exciting.
Side Dishes
Although this pasta is hearty on its own, pairing it with a crisp green salad or warm garlic bread turns it into a complete meal. A simple side of roasted vegetables or corn on the cob adds extra texture and color on the plate, making your dinner spread feel vibrant and balanced without much extra effort.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving this dish for guests or a dinner party, try assembling the pasta in individual bowls and topping each with a slice of avocado or pickled jalapeños for a fun twist. You can also sprinkle crushed tortilla chips over the top for a delightful crunch that mimics your favorite taco toppings in every bite. Presentation is all about adding those little extras that make this humble pasta feel special and festive!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
One of the best things about this One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe is that leftovers keep beautifully for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your next meal just as delightful. Just be sure to cool the pasta completely before sealing it to preserve its creamy texture.
Freezing
While freezing is an option, keep in mind that the pasta and cheese texture might change slightly once thawed. If you want to freeze your leftovers, portion them into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to help preserve the best taste and consistency.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen up the sauce if it has thickened. Stir frequently to ensure the cheese melts smoothly again and the pasta doesn’t dry out. This way, your One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe will taste fresh and creamy like the first time.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work well in this recipe and make for a lighter alternative. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure the meat is fully cooked through, and feel free to add a little extra seasoning to boost the flavor as needed.
What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Shell pasta is ideal because it cradles the sauce and cheese perfectly, but you can also use elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne. Just keep the cooking time similar and check the pasta for doneness to avoid overcooking.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe has a mild to moderate spice level thanks to the diced tomatoes with green chilies, but you can easily adjust it. For a milder version, use diced tomatoes without chilies, or add extra chili powder or hot sauce if you prefer more heat.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef with your favorite plant-based protein, such as crumbled tofu, lentils, or a meat substitute. Just cook according to package instructions and season similarly to keep that taco flavor intact.
What can I substitute for Monterey Jack cheese?
If you don’t have Monterey Jack, mozzarella or a mild white cheddar are great alternatives. These cheeses melt well and provide a creamy texture similar to Monterey Jack’s smooth richness.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe truly hits the spot when you want something flavorful, creamy, and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s simple, speedy, and packed with bold taco-inspired goodness that everyone will love. Next time you’re craving cheesy pasta with a twist, whip up this recipe—you’ll be so glad you did, and it just might become your new go-to weeknight favorite!
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Print
One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
This One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta is an easy, flavorful weeknight dinner combining seasoned ground beef, creamy cheeses, and tender pasta cooked all together in a single pot. Packed with Mexican-inspired spices and a cheesy finish, this dish delivers a comforting and satisfying meal in under 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried minced onion
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel brand preferred)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup water
- 8 ounces shell pasta
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mild cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add the ground beef along with ground cumin, dried minced onion, and garlic powder. Cook until the beef is fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain the excess fat from the pot to reduce greasiness.
- Add Base Ingredients and Simmer: To the browned beef, stir in tomato paste, diced tomatoes with green chilies, beef broth, and 1 cup of whole milk. Mix well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the shell pasta to the pot and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender, about 8-10 minutes or according to the package instructions. Add more liquid if needed to prevent sticking.
- Melt in the Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, reduce heat to low. Gradually stir in the shredded Monterey Jack and mild cheddar cheeses, one cup at a time, until fully melted and evenly combined with the pasta and beef.
- Serve Immediately: Remove the pot from heat and serve the cheesy taco pasta hot for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add more diced green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Use low-fat milk instead of whole milk to reduce calories and fat content.
- Feel free to top with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or sour cream for added flavor.
- Make sure to stir frequently while simmering pasta to prevent sticking or burning at the bottom.
