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–+ servings
Benjamin

Best Cheesy Taco Pasta Dinner

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!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 -6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients Method Notes

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

Method
 

Sauté the Vegetables and Meat:
  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot (5–6 quarts) over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 2 minutes until softened.
  3. 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:
  1. Stir in taco seasoning, paprika, cumin, diced tomatoes, and green chiles. Mix well.
  2. Add the dry elbow pasta and stir to coat. Pour in the beef or vegetable broth and stir everything together.
Cook the Pasta:
  1. Increase heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil.
  2. 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:
  1. Turn off the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the sauce.
  2. Mix in the chopped cilantro, fresh lime juice, and hot sauce (if using). Adjust salt to taste.
Serve and Garnish:
  1. 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.

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