Few meals offer the perfect blend of comfort, flavor, and convenience quite like Cheesy Taco Pasta. This dish takes the bold, smoky flavors of tacos and combines them with creamy, cheesy pasta, creating an easy, satisfying dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
With minimal prep, one-pot cleanup, and a cook time of just 30 minutes, this dish delivers big flavors with little effort. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal-prepping for the week, or simply craving a comforting dinner, this Cheesy Taco Pasta is guaranteed to hit the spot.
Why This Cheesy Taco Pasta Will Be Your New Favorite Meal
1. The Best of Both Worlds: Tacos and Pasta in One Dish
Taco night and pasta night are two of the most beloved dinners, so why choose between them? This dish combines the smoky, spiced flavors of tacos with the creamy, cheesy richness of pasta, making it a surefire hit with both kids and adults.
2. One-Pot Simplicity for Easy Cleanup
Forget about juggling multiple pots and pans—this dish is made entirely in one pot, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
3. Packed with Bold, Flavorful Ingredients
Every bite of this taco pasta is infused with classic Mexican-inspired flavors from ingredients like:
- Taco seasoning for smoky, savory depth.
- Diced tomatoes and green chiles for a tangy, slightly spicy kick.
- Fresh lime juice and cilantro to add brightness and freshness.
- Shredded cheddar cheese for a creamy, melty finish.
4. Highly Customizable to Suit Any Diet
This dish is incredibly versatile, making it easy to adjust based on dietary needs and personal preferences:
- Make it vegetarian by swapping the ground beef for black beans, pinto beans, or lentils.
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein alternative.
- Make it dairy-free by using plant-based cheese or omitting the cheese altogether.
- Increase the heat by adding extra chili powder, jalapeños, or hot sauce.
5. Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers
This dish stores well and reheats beautifully, making it a great choice for meal prepping. Cook once and enjoy flavorful leftovers throughout the week!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 white onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 pound lean ground beef (or 12 ounces plant-based meat)
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (or 1-ounce store-bought packet)
- 1 teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (4-ounce) can chopped green chiles, undrained
- 8 ounces dry elbow pasta
- 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
For the Finish:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
- Salt, to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped green onions
- Sour cream
- Lime wedges
Directions
- Sauté the Vegetables and Meat:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot.
- Cook onion and red bell pepper until softened.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Add Seasonings, Tomatoes, Pasta, and Broth:
- Stir in taco seasoning, paprika, cumin, diced tomatoes, and green chiles.
- Add dry elbow pasta and coat with seasonings.
- Pour in beef or vegetable broth and mix well.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 13–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Mix in Cheese, Cilantro, and Lime:
- Turn off heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
- Add cilantro, lime juice, and hot sauce.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Let the dish rest for 3–5 minutes before serving.
- Top with green onions, sour cream, or lime wedges.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Cheesy Taco Pasta
1. Choose the Right Pasta for the Best Texture
The best pasta options for this dish are short, sturdy shapes that hold up well in a creamy, saucy dish. Some great choices include:
- Elbow macaroni (classic and traditional)
- Rotini (spirals that hold onto sauce beautifully)
- Small shells (perfect for catching bits of ground beef and cheese)
- Penne (a heartier option for extra bite)
If you need a gluten-free version, opt for chickpea or lentil pasta, which also adds extra protein.
2. Use Homemade Taco Seasoning for More Control Over Flavor
While store-bought taco seasoning is convenient, making your own allows you to adjust the heat and salt content to your liking. A simple homemade taco seasoning mix includes:
- Chili powder
- Ground cumin
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
3. Don’t Skip the Lime Juice—It Makes a Difference!
Fresh lime juice adds a bright, citrusy contrast that balances the richness of the cheese and beef. Don’t skip this step—it enhances the overall flavor significantly.
4. Add a Spoonful of Sour Cream or Cream Cheese for Extra Creaminess
If you want an even creamier sauce, stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese just before serving. This adds extra richness and tanginess to the dish.
5. Stir Frequently to Prevent Sticking
Since this dish is cooked in one pot, be sure to stir occasionally while the pasta is simmering to prevent it from sticking to the bottom.
How to Serve Cheesy Taco Pasta
While this dish is hearty and satisfying on its own, adding a few simple sides or toppings can elevate it even further.
Best Toppings for Taco Pasta:
- Sliced green onions – Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor.
- Diced avocado – Creamy and cooling against the spices.
- Extra shredded cheese – Because you can never have too much!
- Crushed tortilla chips – Adds crunch for extra texture.
- Sour cream – Balances the spice and adds richness.
Best Side Dishes for Taco Pasta:
- Cornbread or warm tortillas – Great for scooping up extra sauce.
- Roasted corn or grilled veggies – A lighter side to complement the richness of the pasta.
- Mexican-style salad – A crisp, refreshing side with lettuce, tomatoes, and lime vinaigrette.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing Leftovers:
- Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing Instructions:
- Let the pasta cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Instructions:
- Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
- Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Yes! Any short pasta shape will work, including penne, rotini, or shells. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
2. How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
To increase the heat, try:
- Adding extra chili powder or cayenne pepper.
- Stirring in diced jalapeños with the onions and peppers.
- Using hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes before serving.
3. Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
Yes! This dish holds up well for meal prep. Make it ahead and store in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage.
4. How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
For a lighter version:
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Swap the pasta for whole wheat or legume-based pasta.
- Reduce the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
5. Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Use 1 ½ cups of chopped fresh tomatoes in place of canned diced tomatoes.
6. Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Yes! Simply use dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese altogether. You can also stir in coconut milk or cashew cream for added creaminess.
Conclusion: The Perfect Weeknight Meal
Cheesy Taco Pasta is the ultimate one-pot dinner—bold, comforting, and packed with flavor. With its easy preparation, rich and creamy texture, and customizable ingredients, this dish is guaranteed to become a staple in your meal rotation.
Whether you make it spicy, creamy, vegetarian, or extra cheesy, this simple yet satisfying recipe delivers big flavors in just 30 minutes.
So, grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and enjoy a cheesy, taco-infused pasta dish that’s sure to become a household favorite!
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Best Cheesy Taco Pasta Dinner
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Description
If you love tacos and pasta, this One-Pot Taco Pasta is your dream dinner! It’s packed with bold taco flavors, creamy melted cheese, and tender pasta—all made in a single pot for easy cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a comforting meal, this dish will be your go-to favorite. Top it with sour cream, green onions, or a squeeze of fresh lime for an extra burst of flavor!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 white onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 pound lean ground beef (or 12 ounces of plant-based meat)
- 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning or 1 (1-ounce) packet taco seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (4-ounce) can chopped green chiles, undrained
- 8 ounces dry elbow pasta
- 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
- Salt, as needed
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped green onions
- Sour cream
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables and Meat:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot (5–6 quarts) over medium-high heat.
- Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 2 minutes until softened.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for 3–5 minutes until browned, then drain any excess grease if necessary.
- Add Seasonings and Liquids:
- Stir in taco seasoning, paprika, cumin, diced tomatoes, and green chiles. Mix well.
- Add the dry elbow pasta and stir to coat. Pour in the beef or vegetable broth and stir everything together.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Increase heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 13–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
- Incorporate Cheese and Final Touches:
- Turn off the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the sauce.
- Mix in the chopped cilantro, fresh lime juice, and hot sauce (if using). Adjust salt to taste.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Let the dish sit for 3–5 minutes to thicken slightly. Serve warm, topped with your favorite garnishes like sour cream, green onions, and lime wedges.
Notes
- Protein Options: Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat can be used instead of ground beef.
- Spice Level: Adjust the taco seasoning or add more hot sauce to customize the spice.
- Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based meat or swap it for black beans or lentils.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
