One Pot Beef Taco Pasta (Easy 30-Minute Family Dinner)
One Pot Beef Taco Pasta is a quick and comforting Tex-Mex–inspired dinner that brings together bold taco flavors and tender pasta in one easy dish. Everything cooks in a single pot, making cleanup simple and dinner stress-free. It’s cheesy, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights when you want something the whole family will love.
Ingredients
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1 lb (450 g) ground beef
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2 tbsp taco seasoning
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8 oz (225 g) pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
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1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
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1 cup tomato sauce
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2 cups beef broth or water
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1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
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1 tbsp olive oil (optional)
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2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
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½ cup black beans (optional)
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½ cup corn kernels (optional)
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¼ cup jalapeños or diced bell peppers (optional)
Instructions
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Brown the beef:
Heat a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. If using, add olive oil and garlic. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed. -
Season:
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef and stir well to evenly coat. -
Add pasta and liquids:
Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth (or water). Add the uncooked pasta, making sure it is mostly submerged in the liquid. -
Simmer:
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. -
Add cheese:
Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy. -
Serve:
Remove from heat. Garnish with cilantro, green onions, or sour cream if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
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Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
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Adjust spice level by adding extra jalapeños or using mild taco seasoning.
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Make it creamy: Add a splash of milk or cream with the cheese if desired.
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Great for leftovers: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.