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Cozy One-Pot Taco Pasta – Simple Dinner Recipe

One-Pot Taco Pasta is the perfect combination of comfort food and bold Tex-Mex flavors. This easy-to-make dish combines seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, gooey cheese, and zesty toppings for a hearty meal that’s ready in no time. With just one pot, you’ll enjoy all the taste and none of the cleanup hassle!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 -6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 white onion chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper chopped
  • 1 pound lean ground beef or 12 ounces Impossible Meat
  • 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning or 1 store-bought packet
  • 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

Method
 

Sauté the vegetables and ground beef:
  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking for 2 minutes until softened. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 3–5 minutes until most of the pink is gone. (For plant-based meat, cook for 2–3 minutes.)
Add the seasoning, tomatoes, pasta, and broth:
  1. Stir in taco seasoning, paprika, and cumin. Add the diced tomatoes and green chilis, including their juices. Mix in the dry pasta, ensuring it’s coated. Pour in the beef or vegetable broth and stir again.
Bring to a boil and simmer:
  1. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil (about 3–5 minutes). Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 13–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
Mix in cheese, cilantro, and lime:
  1. Turn off the heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Add chopped cilantro, lime juice, and hot sauce (if using). Adjust salt to taste.
Serve and enjoy:
  1. Let the pasta rest for 3–5 minutes to thicken. Serve warm with optional toppings like sour cream, green onions, or lime wedges.

Notes

    • Customizable: Swap the beef for plant-based protein or add extra veggies like zucchini or corn.
    • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth.
    • Make it spicier: Add diced jalapeños, extra hot sauce, or spicy taco seasoning.
 

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