One Pot Taco Pasta is a quick and tasty meal that combines the flavors of taco night with the comfort of pasta. You’ll love how it all cooks together in just one pot!
This dish is filled with cheesy goodness and packed with seasoned ground beef, making it a family favorite. I can’t resist topping it with some fresh salsa and sour cream—it’s the best part! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish! You can swap it for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Black Beans: They’re packed with protein and fiber! If you don’t have black beans, pinto beans or kidney beans work just as well.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes bring a lot of flavor. If fresh tomatoes are on hand, use about 2 cups diced, plus a bit of broth to make up for the liquid.
Pasta: I used rotini, but feel free to use any short pasta, like penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type.
Cheese: Cheddar is a great choice for melting, but you can also use Monterey Jack or a dairy-free cheese if you prefer.
How Do I Avoid Sticky Pasta?
A common issue when cooking pasta in one pot is sticking. To prevent this, make sure to stir the pasta well after adding it to the pot and during simmering. Here’s a quick guide:
- Start with enough liquid: The pasta needs plenty of broth to cook evenly.
- Stir occasionally: This helps keep the pasta separated and ensures even cooking.
- Adjust heat as needed: If the liquid is boiling too hard, it can cause the pasta to clump. A gentle simmer is best for even absorption.
Feel free to share with your loved ones—a great meal like this is best enjoyed together!
One Pot Taco Pasta
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 1 (14.5 oz / 410 g) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups (480 ml) beef or chicken broth
- 8 oz (225 g) rotini pasta (or other short pasta)
- 1 packet (about 1 oz) taco seasoning mix
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sliced green onions (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for serving)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes for prep and around 15-20 minutes for cooking, totaling approximately 30-35 minutes. It’s a simple and quick meal perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
Heat the olive oil in a large and deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook, breaking the beef apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
Add the minced garlic and bell pepper (if you’re using it) to the pot. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes until everything is fragrant and the pepper is slightly softened.
3. Season the Mixture:
Stir in the taco seasoning and chili powder, making sure to coat the meat and vegetables evenly. This will give all the flavors you love from taco night!
4. Add Remaining Ingredients:
Next, add the undrained diced tomatoes, rinsed black beans, broth, and the uncooked rotini pasta to the pot. Give everything a good stir to combine.
5. Cook the Pasta:
Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes or until the pasta is tender. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together.
6. Melt the Cheese:
Once the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. Cover the pot again and let it sit for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts into a gooey layer.
7. Adjust Seasoning:
Taste your dish and add salt and pepper as needed for extra flavor. You want it to be deliciously perfect!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your One Pot Taco Pasta hot, topped with a dollop of sour cream for creaminess, freshly chopped cilantro, and sliced green onions for a beautiful presentation.
Enjoy this hearty, flavorful, and simple One Pot Taco Pasta that brings the fun of taco night to your dinner table in no time!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a fantastic substitute that lowers the fat content while still providing great flavor. Just follow the same cooking instructions!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or add more beans and vegetables like corn or zucchini for added texture and nutrition.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, One Pot Taco Pasta freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
