One-Pot Taco Pasta – The Ultimate Easy Weeknight Dinner
If you love tacos and pasta, this One-Pot Taco Pasta is about to become your new favorite dinner. It’s cheesy, comforting, packed with bold taco flavors, and best of all — it’s ready in just 20 minutes using one single pot.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or when you want a meal that everyone at the table will love. It tastes even better than takeout and requires minimal cleanup.
⭐ Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Taco Pasta
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Ready in 20 minutes
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One-pot recipe (easy cleanup!)
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Super cheesy & flavorful
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Family-friendly & budget-friendly
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Perfect for meal prep
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
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250 g (8 oz) rotini or penne pasta
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1 lb (450 g) ground beef
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1 small onion (chopped)
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3 cloves garlic (minced)
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1 packet taco seasoning
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1 cup canned diced tomatoes
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2 cups beef broth
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
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Salt & pepper (to taste)
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Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
👩🍳 How to Make One-Pot Taco Pasta
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
Step 2: Add Flavor
Add chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Stir in taco seasoning.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Add uncooked pasta, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir well.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Make It Cheesy
Once pasta is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed, stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and creamy.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Remove from heat, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve hot.
🔥 Pro Tips for Best Results
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Use short pasta to absorb the sauce better
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Add a splash of broth if pasta dries out
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Taste before salting (taco seasoning is already salty)
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Let it rest 2 minutes for extra creaminess
🔄 Variations & Substitutions
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Chicken Taco Pasta: Swap beef for ground chicken
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Spicy Version: Add jalapeños or chili flakes
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Vegetarian: Use black beans instead of meat
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Extra Cheesy: Add cream cheese or mozzarella
❓ FAQ (Great for SEO)
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze taco pasta?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 1 month.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.