Sometimes, you just need a dish that’s quick to prepare, easy to clean up, and bursting with flavor. That’s where One-Pot Taco Pasta comes in. This dish takes the best parts of tacos—spiced beef, zesty toppings, and bold seasonings—and combines them with hearty pasta for a meal that’s comforting and satisfying. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or you’re cooking for a crowd, this recipe is your go-to solution for a delicious meal with minimal fuss.

Why You’ll Love One-Pot Taco Pasta

You’ll adore this recipe for so many reasons. It’s quick to make, requires only one pot (hello, fewer dishes!), and it’s versatile enough to adapt to your tastes. Plus, the combination of seasoned beef, tender pasta, and gooey cheese is a match made in food heaven. Your family will love it, and you’ll love how easy it is to pull together.

Ingredients for One-Pot Taco Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious meal:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 white onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 pound lean ground beef (use 12 ounces for Impossible Meat)
• 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning (or 1 packet store-bought)
• 1 teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
• 1 (4-ounce) can chopped green chilis (undrained)
• 8 ounces elbow pasta (uncooked)
• 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
• Salt, as needed

Optional toppings:

• Chopped green onions
• Sour cream
• Lime wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables and Ground Beef

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot (5–6 quarts) over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes until they begin to soften. Next, add the ground beef and use a wooden spoon to break it up. Cook for 3–5 minutes until most of the pink is gone. For plant-based meat, this step will take only 2–3 minutes.

Tip: If your beef is too fatty, you can spoon off some grease for a leaner dish.

2. Add the Seasoning, Tomatoes, Pasta, and Broth

Lower the heat to medium and stir in taco seasoning, paprika, and cumin. Add the canned diced tomatoes and green chilis, including their juices. Mix well, then pour in the uncooked pasta and stir to coat. Add the beef or vegetable broth and give everything another stir.

3. Bring to a Boil

Turn the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. This should take about 3–5 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.

4. Simmer the Pasta

Once the mixture is boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Let it simmer for 13–15 minutes until the pasta is tender. Stir a few times during cooking to ensure even doneness and prevent sticking.

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5. Mix in Cheese, Cilantro, and Lime

Turn off the heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted into the pasta. Mix in the chopped cilantro, lime juice, and hot sauce (if using). Taste and adjust the salt if needed.

6. Let It Rest and Serve

Let the pasta sit for 3–5 minutes to thicken slightly. Serve it hot, topped with your favorite garnishes like sour cream, green onions, or an extra squeeze of lime.

Why This Recipe Works

• One-pot simplicity: Everything cooks in a single pot, reducing cleanup.
• Bold flavors: The taco seasoning, lime juice, and cheese create an explosion of taste.
• Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	450
Protein	27g
Carbohydrates	38g
Fat	18g
Sodium	870mg

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About One-Pot Taco Pasta

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While elbow pasta works well, you can use rotini, penne, or shells. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes! Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a pot with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

3. How can I make it vegetarian?

Swap the ground beef for plant-based meat or use an extra cup of diced vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.

4. Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes! Add more hot sauce, use diced jalapeños, or choose a spicy taco seasoning for extra heat.

5. How do I prevent the pasta from overcooking?

Keep an eye on the simmering process and check the pasta for doneness after 12 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid sticking.

6. What are some alternative toppings?

Try adding avocado slices, shredded lettuce, crumbled tortilla chips, or pico de gallo for a fresh twist.

Notes and Tips

• Prep ahead: Chop the onion and bell pepper in advance to save time.
• Adjust seasoning: You can tweak the taco seasoning to match your spice preference.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Conclusion: Your One-Pot Taco Pasta Adventure

With this recipe, you’re set to enjoy a hearty, flavorful dish that’s as easy to make as it is to devour. One-Pot Taco Pasta is perfect for busy weeknights, casual get-togethers, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. Gather your ingredients, grab your pot, and let the magic happen. Your taste buds will thank you!

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