If there’s one dinner that hits all the right notes of comfort, flavor, and pure weeknight magic, it’s this One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe. Imagine all of your favorite taco flavors—zesty spices, juicy beef, melty cheese—hugging perfectly cooked pasta in a sauce that’s equal parts creamy and bold. And here’s the best part: it all comes together in one pot with hardly any fuss. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, powering through a busy night, or just craving something irresistibly cheesy, this recipe is about to become your new go-to!

One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about the One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe is how straightforward the ingredient list is. Every item adds something special, from rich flavor to satisfying creaminess, making sure that every bite is vibrant and totally crave-worthy.

Olive oil: Adds richness to brown the beef and helps build the base of flavor.
Ground beef: The star protein that delivers a hearty and classic taco taste; substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option.
Chopped onion: Lends sweetness and depth, melding seamlessly with the beef.
Minced garlic: Adds aromatic punch and elevates every bite.
Taco seasoning: The secret weapon for big flavor—a simple way to get that signature taco kick.
Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained): Brightens up the dish with tangy tomatoes and just a touch of spice.
Beef broth: Layers in savory depth and helps the pasta cook up perfectly tender right in the pot.
Uncooked pasta shells or rotini: Their shape holds onto all the cheesy, meaty goodness!
Sour cream: Swirls in at the end for creamy tang that balances the spices and makes the sauce silky.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Essential for that ooey-gooey, melty crown you expect from a comfort classic.
Salt and black pepper: Just a pinch to season and perfect every layer of flavor.
Fresh cilantro or green onions (optional): Offers a burst of fresh color and a pop of herby flavor to finish things beautifully.

How to Make One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating your olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the ground beef and break it up with a spoon. Cook it through until it’s beautifully browned, which not only builds flavor but also ensures the meat is juicy. If there’s excess grease, drain it off for a lighter final dish.

Step 2: Soften Onion and Garlic

Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Let them cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the onions soften and the kitchen fills with the irresistible smell of sizzling aromatics—this is where the flavor base comes alive!

Step 3: Spice It Up

Sprinkle in your taco seasoning and stir it all together so that every morsel of beef gets coated. Then, pour in the Rotel diced tomatoes (juices and all) and beef broth. Stir well to marry all of those bold, taco-inspired flavors.

Step 4: Add Pasta and Simmer

Pour your uncooked pasta into the pot and stir to combine. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and let it cook for about 12 to 15 minutes, giving it a stir every now and then. The pasta will soak up all the zesty broth, becoming tender and infused with tons of flavor.

Step 5: Make It Creamy and Cheesy

Once the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed, turn off the heat. Gently fold in the sour cream and heaps of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until you see the cheese melt into velvety ribbons and the sauce becomes ultra-creamy. Taste and season with a little salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Spoon generous helpings into bowls and, if you’re feeling fancy, scatter over some chopped cilantro or green onions for that final, irresistible touch. Serve it up piping hot!

How to Serve One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

A good garnish can turn this One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe into something extra special. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro brings brightness, while sliced green onions add crunch and a gentle bite. For more richness, a dollop of extra sour cream or a few diced avocado pieces make each bowl feel truly indulgent.

Side Dishes

Since this pasta is so hearty, you don’t need much on the side—think of a crisp green salad with a limey vinaigrette or some lightly roasted veggies. Warm garlic bread or tortilla chips are also a hit for scooping up any cheesy bits left in the bowl!

Creative Ways to Present

For weeknight fun, serve the pasta in colorful bowls and let everyone add their own toppings: jalapeño slices, crushed tortilla chips, pico de gallo, or a little extra cheese. If you’re hosting friends, you can even spoon the Cheesy Taco Pasta into halved baked bell peppers and bake briefly for a fun, taco-inspired twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe is pure gold for weekday lunches or quick dinners. Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days, and the flavors only deepen as it sits.

Freezing

To freeze, portion the cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. For best texture, avoid freezing garnishes. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water if needed to restore its creamy consistency. Stir well and top with fresh cilantro or onions for that just-cooked feel.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While shells and rotini are great at soaking up the cheesy sauce, elbow macaroni or penne also work beautifully in this One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the shape you choose.

Is there a way to make this vegetarian?

Yes! Swap out the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or black beans, and use vegetable broth in place of beef broth. You’ll still get all those fantastic taco flavors, minus the meat.

Can I make it spicier?

If you’re craving more heat, toss in a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce when you add the Rotel tomatoes. Pepper jack cheese can also give the One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe an extra spicy kick.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute for sour cream here—it keeps the sauce creamy and tangy while adding a little protein. You can also use a dairy-free yogurt if you need a lactose-free option.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Definitely! The One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe is super easy to scale up. Just make sure to use a larger pot and allow a few extra minutes for the pasta to cook evenly. It’s perfect for parties or family gatherings.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for that one meal everyone asks for again and again, you can’t go wrong with this One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe. It’s warm, satisfying, and bursting with flavor—plus, cleanup is a breeze. Why not give it a try tonight and watch it become an instant family favorite? Your taste buds (and your future self!) will thank you.

One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Recipe

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4.7 from 21 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta recipe is a quick and easy meal that combines the flavors of tacos with creamy, cheesy pasta. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Liquids:

1 packet taco seasoning
1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
2 cups beef broth

Additional Ingredients:

8 ounces uncooked pasta shells or rotini
1/2 cup sour cream
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh cilantro or green onions, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Heat olive oil: In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Cook beef: Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess grease if needed.
Add onion and garlic: Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cook until softened.
Season and simmer: Stir in taco seasoning, Rotel, and beef broth. Add uncooked pasta, bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 12–15 minutes.
Finish pasta: Stir in sour cream and shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
Garnish and serve: Garnish with cilantro or green onions, if desired. Serve hot.