This One Pot Taco Pasta is a fun and simple dish that brings the flavors of tacos into a creamy pasta meal. It’s packed with ground beef, cheese, and spices—yum!
You’ll love how easy this is to make. Just cook it all in one pot, and clean-up is a breeze! Perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick and tasty. 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The core element that gives this dish its meaty flavor. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken if you want something lighter. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or plant-based meat alternatives.
Pasta: Rotini works great here, as its shape holds onto the sauce. However, you can use any short pasta like penne or fusilli. Just keep an eye on the cooking time since different types may need adjustments.
Black Beans: These add texture and protein. If you’re not a fan, feel free to replace them with pinto beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas for a twist!
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: This adds a nice kick to the dish. If you prefer milder flavors, regular diced tomatoes work too. Just add a pinch of chili powder to maintain that taco flavor.
Cilantro: It garnishes the dish with fresh flavor. If you’re not a fan, fresh parsley or green onions can substitute nicely.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta in one pot can be tricky if you don’t pay close attention. Here are some tips:
- Keep the heat at medium-low after boiling, so the pasta simmers gently. This prevents it from becoming mushy.
- Stir occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick to the pot. Use a spoon to check the pasta’s doneness around the 12-minute mark.
- Remember, the pasta will continue to cook slightly after you remove it from the heat, so if it’s just a tiny bit under, that’s okay!
By following these tips, you’ll achieve a perfectly cooked pasta mixed with all the tasty taco flavors in no time!
How to Make One Pot Taco Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 12 oz (340g) rotini or spiral pasta
- 1 can (15 oz/425g) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen or canned corn kernels
- 1 can (14.5 oz/410g) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- 3 cups beef broth or water
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1-2 green onions, sliced
- Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños, avocado slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook. In just under 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions and Meat:
Start by heating olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 2-3 minutes until it’s nice and soft. Then, add the ground beef. Use a spoon to break it apart and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s a lot of fat, feel free to drain some off.
2. Add the Spices:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the minced garlic and spices: chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne (if you like it spicy). Season with salt and pepper, then cook everything together for about 1 minute until it smells amazing!
3. Mix in the Main Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the pasta, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and beef broth. Give everything a good stir to make sure it’s all combined evenly.
4. Cook the Pasta:
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Add Cheese and Sour Cream:
After the pasta is cooked, remove the lid and stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the sauce. Right before serving, dollop the sour cream on top and sprinkle the remaining cheese over it. Cover the pot again for a couple of minutes so the cheese melts nicely.
6. Garnish and Serve:
To finish off, garnish with fresh cilantro and sliced green onions. You can also add optional toppings like jalapeños or avocado slices if you’d like. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful One Pot Taco Pasta!
This recipe is perfect for family dinners or meal prep, combining all the delicious elements of tacos into a cozy pasta dish, cooked effortlessly in one pot!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute. Just cook it the same way as the beef, and the flavors will still shine through!
What Can I Substitute for the Black Beans?
If you’re not a fan of black beans, you can use pinto beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas. Just make sure to rinse and drain any canned beans you use!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water if it seems a little dry.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes, just replace the ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat alternative. Make sure to use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a fully vegetarian meal!