This One Pot Taco Pasta is a fun and easy meal that packs all the flavors of your favorite tacos in one dish! It features pasta, ground beef, taco seasoning, and plenty of cheese.
It’s so simple to make; you just cook everything together in one pot! Perfect for busy nights or when you just want to keep the dishes to a minimum. Trust me, the kids will love it! 🌮🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This gives the dish a hearty base. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well too. For a vegetarian dish, swap with lentils or beyond meat crumbles.
Rotini Pasta: Spiral pasta holds the sauce perfectly. You can use other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different kinds may take longer or shorter to cook.
Black Beans: They add protein and a nice texture. If you’re not a fan of black beans, kidney beans or pinto beans are great alternatives. Canned or cooked beans save time!
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: A can of diced tomatoes adds flavor and moisture. If you want a spicier kick, look for fire-roasted canned tomatoes or add fresh jalapeños.
How Do I Ensure the Pasta Cooks Properly Without Sticking?
Cooking pasta in one pot can be tricky when it comes to sticking to the bottom. Here’s how to make it easier:
- Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally as it cooks. This helps prevent it from clumping together.
- Add enough liquid, like broth, when the pasta is in. You want it to be submerged mostly, so it cooks evenly.
- Keep the heat at a low simmer once boiling. A hard boil can cause pasta to stick and cook unevenly.
Following these tips will help you achieve a delicious, non-sticky pasta in your one pot taco dish!
One Pot Taco Pasta Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 cups rotini pasta (or any spiral pasta)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning mix
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This One Pot Taco Pasta recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll spend about 25 minutes in the kitchen for a delicious, hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Beef:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. After browning, carefully drain any excess fat from the pan.
2. Add the Aromatics:
Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef mixture. Sauté together for about 2-3 minutes, until the onion is softened and fragrant. This step adds lots of great flavor!
3. Mix in the Vegetables:
Stir in the diced red bell pepper and continue cooking for another 2 minutes. This adds a nice crunch and color to your dish.
4. Season the Meat:
Now, sprinkle the taco seasoning over the meat mixture, stirring well to coat everything evenly with the spices. This is where the taco flavor really comes from!
5. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the uncooked rotini pasta, drained black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and beef broth to the pot. Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients well.
6. Cook the Pasta:
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking!
7. Add Cheese:
When the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top. Cover the pot again and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese is melted.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your One Pot Taco Pasta with fresh cilantro. Serve it up with lime wedges on the side for an extra kick of flavor if you like. Enjoy your flavorful and easy meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef and will work well in this recipe. Just be aware that it may cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
What Can I Substitute for Beef Broth?
If you don’t have beef broth, chicken broth works just as well! You can also use vegetable broth if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen up the pasta.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and replace it with mushrooms, lentils, or quinoa for added protein. Use vegetable broth and ensure that any cheese is vegetarian-friendly. This will still yield a delicious and filling meal!
