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Cheesy One-Pot Taco Pasta

Cheesy One-Pot Taco Pasta

This Cheesy One-Pot Taco Pasta is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights. A delicious fusion of Mexican and Italian flavors, this pasta dish combines tender noodles, savory ground meat, taco seasoning, and melty cheese in one pot. Perfect for easy taco pasta nights, healthy dinner recipes, or cheap dinners for a family, this meal delivers big flavor with minimal cleanup.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef or ground chicken
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 packet taco seasoning or 2 tbsp homemade mix
  • 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups chicken broth or water
  • 8 oz pasta penne, rotini, or shells
  • ½ cup salsa optional for extra spice
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro jalapeños, or sour cream for garnish

Method
 

  1. Cook the meat:
  2. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef (or chicken) and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
  3. Add aromatics:
  4. Stir in diced onion and garlic; cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add taco seasoning and mix well.
  5. Simmer the pasta:
  6. Pour in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and pasta. Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is covered with liquid.
  7. Cook together:
  8. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10–12 minutes or until pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  9. Add the cheese:
  10. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  11. Serve:
  12. Garnish with cilantro, jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • For a Healthier Taco Pasta, use lean ground turkey or chicken breast.
  • Add black beans, corn, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and color.
  • For a creamier Taco Alfredo Pasta, stir in 2 tablespoons of cream cheese or sour cream at the end.
  • Turn leftovers into a Taco Pasta Bake — sprinkle with cheese and bake at 375°F for 10 minutes.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or milk to refresh the sauce.