One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Easy Weeknight Meal

December 12, 2025October 20, 2025 by Chef Tavio

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 lb ground beef or turkey

– 8 oz (approximately 2 cups) elbow macaroni

– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies

These three main ingredients form the base of your One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta. Ground beef or turkey brings protein and flavor. Elbow macaroni soaks up the yummy sauce. Diced tomatoes with green chilies add a nice kick.

Seasoning and Extras

– 1 packet taco seasoning

– 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese

– 1 cup corn (freshly frozen or canned)

– 1 medium onion, finely diced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

– Salt and black pepper to taste

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

Taco seasoning gives your dish that classic taco flavor. Shredded cheddar cheese melts into a creamy topping. Corn adds sweetness and texture. Onion and garlic enhance the base flavors. Broth makes the sauce rich and tasty.

Optional Garnishes

– Fresh cilantro, chopped

– Sour cream

– Avocado slices

Garnishes like fresh cilantro brighten up the dish. A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess. Avocado slices bring a creamy, healthy touch. These extras make your meal look great and taste even better.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add one tablespoon of olive oil.

2. Once the oil shimmers, add a finely diced medium onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes. The onion should become soft and clear.

3. Stir in two minced cloves of garlic. Add one pound of ground beef or turkey.

4. Cook the meat for 5-7 minutes. Break it up with a wooden spoon until it is brown. Drain any fat if needed.

Combining Ingredients

1. Sprinkle one packet of taco seasoning over the meat. Mix well to coat the meat evenly.

2. Pour in two cups of chicken or vegetable broth. Add one can of diced tomatoes with green chilies.

3. Stir everything until it is well combined.

4. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.

5. Once boiling, lower the heat to medium-low. Add 8 ounces of elbow macaroni and one cup of corn. Stir to make sure the pasta is covered by the liquid.

Final Cooking Process

1. Cover the pot with a lid. Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes.

2. Stir occasionally to stop the pasta from sticking to the pot. Cook until the pasta is soft and most of the liquid is gone.

3. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until it melts.

4. Taste the pasta and add salt and black pepper if needed.

5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if you like. Enjoy your meal!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

To prevent pasta from sticking, stir it often while it cooks. This helps keep it separate. You can also add a splash of olive oil to the water before you add the pasta. Taste your dish as you cook. This way, you can adjust the seasoning to your liking. You might want to add a bit more salt or taco seasoning for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Get creative with garnishes! Top your pasta with extra cheese, sour cream, or sliced avocado. Fresh cilantro adds a nice touch too. For sides, consider serving tortilla chips or a simple green salad. A cold drink, like lemonade or a light beer, pairs well with this dish.

Time-Saving Tips

Using pre-cooked meat can really speed things up. You can find cooked beef or turkey at the store. This saves time on prep and cooking. For busy days, meal prep is key. Cook a double batch and store half for later. Just reheat it when you’re ready to eat!

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can easily switch ground turkey for ground beef. Turkey is leaner and can cut calories. For pasta shapes, try penne, rotini, or even gluten-free options. Each shape holds the sauce differently, adding a fun twist to your dish.

Adding Vegetables

Adding veggies boosts nutrition and flavor. Consider mixing in bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. You can also add beans for protein. Black beans or pinto beans work well. Just rinse them and stir them in when you add the pasta.

Dietary Adjustments

Want to make it vegetarian? Use a plant-based meat substitute instead of beef or turkey. For a vegan option, skip the cheese or use a vegan cheese. You can also find gluten-free pasta to fit your needs. Enjoy your meal, no matter your diet!

Storage Info

Refrigerating Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container. Cool the pasta to room temperature first. This helps to keep it fresh. The pasta stays good for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. If you are not sure, check for any off smells or changes in texture.

Freezing Options

To freeze the dish, let it cool completely. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space for expansion. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you want to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge.

Reheating Tips

For reheating, you can use the microwave or stovetop. In the microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir often to ensure even heating. On the stovetop, add a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess. Stir frequently until heated through. This will help keep your pasta soft and creamy.

FAQs

How long does it take to make One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta?

Making One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta is quick! It takes about 10 minutes to prep. Cooking will take around 20 minutes. So, in just 30 minutes, you can serve a warm, tasty dish.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian! Just swap ground beef with black beans or lentils. You can also use mushrooms for a meaty texture. Adjust the taco seasoning to keep the flavor strong.

What can I serve with One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta?

This dish pairs well with many sides. Try a fresh salad for crunch. You can also serve tortilla chips for a fun crunch. If you want something warm, garlic bread is a great option!

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar adds a nice flavor, you can mix it up. Monterey Jack or pepper jack will add a great kick. You can even try cream cheese for a creamy texture. Get creative with your cheese choices!

This blog covers a tasty one-pot cheesy taco pasta. We explored main ingredients like ground beef, elbow macaroni, and diced tomatoes. I shared tips on seasoning, cooking, and optional garnishes. You can add your favorite veggies or try different meats. Best of all, leftovers store well in the fridge or freeze nicely.

Enjoy making this dish. It’s easy, fun, and perfect for any night. You’ll impress everyone with your cooking skills. Try it out and make it your ow