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One Pot Taco Pasta Recipe

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4.1 from 38 reviews

This One Pot Taco Pasta combines the bold flavors of classic taco seasoning with comforting pasta, all cooked together in a single skillet for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Ground beef is simmered with onions, garlic, spices, crushed tomatoes, and pasta, then finished with cream and melted cheddar cheese for a creamy, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Meat and Vegetables

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Spices

  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

Liquids and Pasta

  • 1 15-ounce can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1/2 pound pasta noodles (shells)
  • 1/2 cup half and half

Dairy and Garnish

  • 2 cups mild cheddar cheese, grated
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon until it is mostly browned.
  2. Sauté Onions: Add the diced onion to the skillet with the beef and cook until the meat is fully browned and the onions are softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Drain Excess Grease: Carefully drain any excess fat from the skillet, then return it to the stovetop over medium heat.
  5. Season Meat: Sprinkle in the chili powder, salt, cumin, dried oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder; stir well to coat the beef and onions evenly with the spices.
  6. Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and add the pasta shells. Stir to combine, pressing the noodles down into the liquid to ensure even cooking.
  7. Simmer Covered: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 10 minutes.
  8. Reduce Sauce: Remove the lid and continue to simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the pasta is tender, about 3-5 more minutes.
  9. Add Cream: Pour in the half and half and stir to combine for a creamy finish.
  10. Melt Cheese: Add the grated cheddar cheese and stir until it melts completely into the sauce.
  11. Serve: Dish out the pasta and top with fresh cilantro and additional grated cheese if desired. Enjoy immediately.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
  • Adjust the chili powder and cumin amounts to control the spice level.
  • Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
  • Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat easily on the stove or microwave.
  • For extra veggies, consider adding diced bell peppers or corn with the onions.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican-American

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/one-pot-taco-pasta-recipe/