Description
This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta is a quick and flavorful dinner combining ground beef, taco seasoning, and pasta all cooked together in a single pot. Easy to prepare in just 30 minutes, this comforting dish features pasta simmered in a savory mix of beef broth, salsa, and spices, finished with cheddar cheese and sour cream for a creamy texture. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a crowd-pleaser with optional fresh toppings like green onions, diced tomatoes, and cilantro to add brightness and color.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup water
- 8 oz uncooked pasta shells or elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Optional Toppings
- Chopped green onions
- Diced tomatoes
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: Heat a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef is thoroughly browned and the onion has softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Seasoning: Drain any excess fat from the pot. Add the minced garlic and taco seasoning, cooking for 1 minute more to release the flavors and ensure the seasoning is fragrant.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Stir in the beef broth, salsa, and water, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked pasta to the simmering liquid, ensuring the pasta is fully submerged. Cover the pot and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the flavors.
- Finish with Cheese and Sour Cream: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream until melted and the sauce is creamy and well combined.
- Serve and Garnish: Spoon the pasta onto plates and garnish with your choice of optional toppings like chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, or fresh cilantro for added freshness and flavor. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Make sure to stir occasionally while the pasta is cooking to prevent it from sticking to the pot.
- Use mild or spicy salsa based on your heat preference.
- For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
- Adding toppings like avocado or jalapeños can provide additional layers of flavor.
