One-Pot Taco Pasta

One-Pot Taco Pasta

Recipe by Table Time TogetherCourse: DinnerCuisine: Tex-Mex / AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

20

minutes
Total time

30

minutes

All your favorite taco flavors in one creamy pasta dish — cheesy, hearty, and made in just one pot! Perfect for busy weeknights and guaranteed to be a family favorite.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 small onion, diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix

  • 2 cups beef broth

  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)

  • 1 ½ cups small pasta shells or elbow macaroni

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • ½ cup sour cream

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, or crushed tortilla chips

Instructions

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat.
  • Add onion and garlic; sauté 2–3 minutes until softened.
  • Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess grease.
  • Stir in taco seasoning, beef broth, and diced tomatoes.
  • Add uncooked pasta; stir well and bring to a simmer.
  • Cover and cook 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
  • Stir in cheese and sour cream until creamy and fully combined.
  • Taste and season with salt and pepper.
  • Top with green onions, diced tomatoes, or crushed chips before serving.

💡Tips & Variations

  • Swap beef for shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick version.
  • Use pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheese for extra spice.
  • Add a handful of corn or black beans for more texture.
  • Make it gluten-free with gluten-free pasta.

🍽️ What to Serve With This

  • Pair this taco pasta with a simple green salad or garlic bread.
  • For another crowd-pleasing dinner, try our Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

🛒 Shop My Kitchen Tools

  • Large nonstick skillet for one-pot meals
  • Wooden spoon set for sautéing
  • Cheese grater for fresh cheddar
  • Favorite taco seasoning blend