Print

Easy One-Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe with Cheesy Goodness Perfect for Dinner

one-pot beef taco pasta - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy one-pot beef taco pasta that combines seasoned ground beef, pasta, and melted cheddar cheese for a comforting and flavorful weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio recommended)
  • 8 ounces medium pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini)
  • 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup tomato sauce (canned, no added sugars)
  • 2 cups beef broth (homemade or low sodium)
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
  • 1 to 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (100–150 grams)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional toppings: chopped fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, sour cream

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  2. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no pink remains, about 6 to 8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Drain excess fat if needed, leaving a little for juiciness.
  3. Sprinkle taco seasoning and chili powder over the beef. Stir well to coat evenly.
  4. Pour in tomato sauce and beef broth. Stir to combine. Add dry pasta directly into the skillet, pushing it down to submerge as much as possible. Stir to distribute pasta evenly.
  5. Bring mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover with lid and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to prevent sticking.
  6. Check pasta for doneness; it should be tender but slightly firm (al dente). If too firm, cook a few minutes more, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
  7. Remove lid and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and let cheese melt for 2 to 3 minutes. Stir gently or leave layered for a cheesy crust.
  8. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Add optional toppings like chopped cilantro or sour cream before serving.

Notes

Use medium pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or rotini for best results. Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent sticking but avoid over-stirring to keep pasta intact. Add cheese at the end on low heat to prevent separation. Protein swaps like ground turkey or chicken and gluten-free pasta options are possible. For dairy-free, use plant-based cheese alternatives and skip sour cream.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot, beef taco pasta, easy dinner, cheesy pasta, weeknight meal, quick recipe, comfort food

Find it online: https://magnetmeal.com/easy-one-pot-beef-taco-pasta-recipe-with-cheesy-goodness-perfect-for-dinner/