Name: One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound ground beef (or turkey); 1 small onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade mix); 2 cups uncooked pasta (like penne or shells); 2 ½ cups chicken or beef broth; 1 cup canned diced tomatoes; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup sour cream; Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, and lime wedges

This One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta is a family-friendly dinner idea that combines the comforting flavors of tacos with cheesy pasta in a single pot. Made with ground beef, taco seasoning, pasta, and melty cheese, it’s a hearty, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor make this dish a winner. The robust taco spices and creamy cheese meld beautifully, satisfying even picky eaters. Whether you’re feeding kids or adults, this quick and easy dish brings everyone to the table. Garnish with your favorite taco toppings like sour cream, avocado, or cilantro for a customizable feast.

Recipe Tips and Tricks:

Topping ideas: Add diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or shredded lettuce for extra crunch.
Spice level: Use mild or spicy taco seasoning to suit your preference.
Cheese options: Mix different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra flavor.
Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat with a splash of broth.
Gluten-free: Substitute pasta with a gluten-free version.

Yield: 6 servings

One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta

Cheesy, taco-flavored pasta made in one pot for a quick, hearty family dinner.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Additional Time 5 minutes

Total Time 35 minutes

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
1 small onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade mix)
2 cups uncooked pasta (like penne or shells)
2 ½ cups chicken or beef broth
1 cup canned diced tomatoes
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup sour cream
Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, and lime wedges

Instructions

Heat the oil: In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Cook the meat: Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess grease.
Add aromatics: Stir in diced onion and garlic; sauté until softened and fragrant.
Season: Sprinkle taco seasoning over the meat mixture and stir well.
Add pasta and liquids: Pour in pasta, broth, and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine, and bring to a boil.
Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta is tender.
Cheese it up: Once the pasta is cooked, remove from heat. Stir in shredded cheese and sour cream until melted and creamy.
Garnish: Serve hot, topped with cilantro, avocado, jalapeños, or a squeeze of lime for extra zest.

Notes

Adjust broth amount based on pasta type to prevent overcooking or undercooking.
A nonstick or stainless-steel pot works best for even cooking.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per ServingCalories 703Total Fat 41gSaturated Fat 15gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 21gCholesterol 159mgSodium 835mgCarbohydrates 34gFiber 5gSugar 4gProtein 47g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.