If you’re craving a dinner that brings together bold Tex-Mex flavors and comforting cheesy pasta, then you are going to love this phenomenal One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe. It’s the kind of meal that feels both indulgent and effortless, combining juicy ground beef, zesty taco seasoning, tender pasta, and melty cheeses all cooked in a single pot. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty, packed with flavor, and quick to come together without any fuss or mess.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s amazing how a few simple ingredients can come together to create such an unforgettable dish. Each component adds its own touch: from the savory ground beef giving hearty depth, to the taco seasoning sparking up the Tex-Mex vibes, and the cheese melting into creamy perfection, every bite bursts with deliciousness.
- 1 lb ground beef: The star protein that delivers rich, savory flavor and satisfying texture.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and helps build the foundational flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant aroma that complements the spices beautifully.
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade): Injects that signature spicy and smoky Tex-Mex punch.
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or shells): Perfect shapes that soak up all the saucy goodness.
- 2 1/2 cups beef broth: Provides moisture to cook the pasta and infuses deep beef flavor.
- 1 cup salsa: Adds tang, subtle heat, and vibrancy to the dish.
- 1 cup canned corn (drained): Adds a pop of sweetness and pleasing bite.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Classic, melty, and sharp to balance the spices.
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese: For extra creaminess and a little kick if you love spice.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To enhance and round out all the flavors.
- Chopped cilantro and sour cream for garnish (optional): Fresh herbaceousness and creamy cooling contrast to finish the dish.
How to Make One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onion
Start by heating a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in your ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the meat is nicely browned and the onions are soft—this usually takes about 5 to 6 minutes. Browning creates deep flavor, so don’t rush it. Drain any excess fat to keep your dish from feeling greasy later on.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Taco Seasoning
Once the beef and onions are ready, stir in the minced garlic and taco seasoning. Let them cook together for about 1 minute until the scent fills your kitchen. This step is crucial because it allows the spices to bloom and become the heart of this flavorful dish.
Step 3: Combine Pasta, Broth, Salsa, and Corn
Now toss in the uncooked pasta, beef broth, salsa, and drained corn. Give everything a good stir to mix the ingredients evenly, then bring the mixture to a rolling boil. This ensures the pasta starts to soften and absorb all those wonderful flavors.
Step 4: Simmer Until Pasta is Tender
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, cover your pot, and let everything cook for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. You want the pasta perfectly tender and all the liquid mostly absorbed, creating a rich, saucy base for the cheese to melt into.
Step 5: Melt in the Cheeses
Remove the pot from heat and quickly stir in your shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheeses. The warmth will melt the cheese into a creamy, decadent sauce that ties the entire dish together. Let it rest for 2 to 3 minutes so it thickens up beautifully before serving.
How to Serve One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe to restaurant-level deliciousness, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top for a fresh, herbaceous note. A spoonful of cool sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spices, making each bite soulful and satisfying. Feel free to add sliced jalapeños or a squeeze of lime for an extra zing!
Side Dishes
This dish is pretty hearty on its own, but pairing it with a light, crisp side like a simple green salad or crunchy tortilla chips adds great texture contrast. Roasted veggies like bell peppers or a corn and black bean salad would also complement the Tex-Mex flavors perfectly without overpowering.
Creative Ways to Present
For fun family dinners or casual get-togethers, serve this pasta straight from the pan, letting everyone dig in family-style. Alternatively, plate individual portions with a sprinkle of extra cheese and cilantro, alongside small bowls of toppings like avocado slices, pico de gallo, or black olives to personalize every serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers keep really well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually continue to meld overnight, so reheating the next day often makes the dish even tastier. Just make sure to stir it gently and add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.
Freezing
This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe also freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Be aware that the texture of the pasta can soften a bit after freezing, but the flavor remains just as delicious.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently on the stove over low-medium heat, adding a little broth or water if needed to bring back that creamy texture. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, to make sure it heats evenly and stays luscious.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for the recipe?
Absolutely! While penne or shells are perfect because they hold the sauce well, feel free to use other short pasta shapes like rotini or rigatoni. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly depending on the pasta type.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap out the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. This tweak keeps all the flavor and comfort while catering to a vegetarian diet.
How spicy is the One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe?
The spice level mostly depends on the taco seasoning and salsa you use. For a milder dish, choose mild taco seasoning and a mild salsa. If you like extra heat, opt for a spicy salsa or add some chili flakes or jalapeños when cooking.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You can brown the beef and onions ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Then finish the recipe the day you want to serve it for the freshest taste and best texture.
What are some great toppings to add on top?
Besides the classic cilantro and sour cream, consider diced avocado, sliced green onions, chopped tomatoes, or even a squeeze of fresh lime juice. These add freshness and freshness that complement the rich, cheesy pasta wonderfully.
Final Thoughts
If you want a crowd-pleasing meal that’s bursting with flavors and requires minimal cleanup, this One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe is your new best friend. It’s easy to make, incredibly comforting, and flexible enough to adapt to whatever you have on hand. Give it a try tonight and watch it become a fast favorite in your dinner rotation!
Print
One Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
One Pot Beef Taco Pasta is a quick and cheesy weeknight dinner loaded with Tex-Mex flavor. Made with ground beef, taco seasoning, pasta, and plenty of cheese, this hearty dish comes together in just one pan—no draining or boiling required!
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade)
Pasta and Sauce
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or shells work well)
- 2 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup canned corn (drained)
Cheese and Garnishes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro (optional)
- Sour cream for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Beef and Onions: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until browned, about 5–6 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add Garlic and Seasoning: Add minced garlic and taco seasoning to the beef mixture. Stir and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine Pasta and Liquids: Add the uncooked pasta, beef broth, salsa, and drained corn. Stir well to combine all ingredients and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the Pasta: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Stir in Cheese: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheeses until melted and creamy.
- Let it Thicken: Let the pasta sit for 2–3 minutes to thicken up before serving.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped cilantro and a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your cheesy taco pasta!
Notes
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter version.
- Add black beans or chopped bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
- Use mild or spicy salsa to control the heat level of the dish.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.
