One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 25 mins
Rest Time 5 mins
Total Time 40 mins
Cooking Method:
Cuisine: ,
Courses: ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 175  C
Servings: 4
Best Season: All Seasons
Description

One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta is a quick and comforting weeknight dinner that combines the bold, zesty flavors of tacos with the creamy richness of cheesy pasta. Made in just one pot, this recipe is perfect for busy nights—easy to prepare, easy to clean up, and full of flavor.

Ingredients
    For the Base
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 450 g ground beef (lean, halal-certified)
  • 2 tbsp taco seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp chili flakes (optional, for spice)
  • 1 can (400 g) diced tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 3 cups beef broth (low sodium, halal-certified)
  • 250 g short pasta (penne, fusilli, or shells)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
    • For the Cheesy Finish
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 0.5 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt (halal-friendly)
    • For Garnish
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro (chopped)
  • 2 tbsp green onions (sliced)
  • 1 fresh jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions
    Sauté the Aromatics
  1. 1
    Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
    2. Cook the Beef
  2. 2
    Add ground beef to the pot. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until browned, about 6–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary. Season with taco seasoning, smoked paprika, and chili flakes. Stir well to coat the meat in spices.
    3. Build the Sauce
  3. 3
    Stir in diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Taste and adjust salt/pepper as needed.
    4. Add Pasta and Cook
  4. 4
    Stir in the pasta, ensuring it’s fully submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot and cook on medium heat for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has absorbed.
    5. Make It Cheesy
  5. 5
    Lower the heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and sour cream (or Greek yogurt). Mix until the sauce is creamy and coats the pasta evenly.
    6. Garnish & Serve
  6. 6
    Turn off the heat, let the dish rest for 5 minutes, then top with cilantro, green onions, and sliced jalapeños if desired. Serve warm.
Note

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.

Freezer Option: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations:

  • Substitute beef with ground chicken or turkey.
  • Add vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini.
  • Make it extra spicy with chipotle peppers or hot sauce.

Cheese Choice: Use Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for different flavors.

Keywords: quick dinner, one-pot pasta, cheesy taco pasta, easy weeknight recipe, Mexican-inspired pasta
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/one-pot-cheesy-taco-pasta-recipe/