If you’re looking for a speedy, cozy dinner that delivers on big flavor with minimal cleanup, One-Pot Taco Pasta is bound to win your heart (and your weeknight meal plan). Imagine all the mouthwatering punch of a classic taco – zesty seasoning, tender meat, creamy cheese, and just a hint of heat – lovingly tangled with tender pasta, all simmered together in one magical pot. It’s the ultimate mash-up for families, busy cooks, and anyone craving something bold and comforting without a drawn-out process or a mountain of dishes.

One-Pot Taco Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s the beauty of One-Pot Taco Pasta: every ingredient plays a starring role. Even the simplest staples come together for a color-packed, flavor-loaded skillet supper that’s impossible to resist. Stock up on these simple specifics and enjoy an easy dinner that stands out.

Ground beef or turkey: The protein backbone of this dish for hearty texture – choose turkey for a lighter version.
Olive oil: Adds a touch of richness and helps sauté the aromatics, especially crucial when using lean ground meats.
Onion: Brings out a sweet savoriness that rounds out the taco flavors beautifully.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives depth and delicious warmth in every bite.
Taco seasoning: Packs in that classic taco flavor with a single spoonful – use homemade or store-bought.
Chili powder: Just half a teaspoon for extra kick and an earthy richness.
Cumin: A pinch is all you need for that signature taco aroma and toasty note.
Beef or chicken broth: The cooking liquid that infuses every strand of pasta with meaty flavor.
Diced tomatoes: Adds juiciness and welcome acidity that balances the cheese and sour cream.
Tomato sauce: Creates the perfect sauciness to coat each forkful of pasta.
Uncooked pasta (penne or rotini): Sturdy shapes that hold sauce and flavor in every swirl.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey, irresistible pockets throughout the dish.
Sour cream: Brings creamy tang that softens the spices and makes the sauce luscious.
Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning to bring everything into harmony.
Chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños (optional): A fresh, zippy finish for serving.

How to Make One-Pot Taco Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin your One-Pot Taco Pasta adventure by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion – it should sizzle as it hits the pan – and cook until it turns translucent and soft, about three minutes. The magic starts here, as the onion infuses the oil with sweetness, forming a base for all the layers of flavor to come.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Brown the Meat

Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for just about 30 seconds. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen is filled with the warm scent of garlic. Add your ground beef or turkey, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, and keep stirring until the meat is browned and no longer pink.

Step 3: Spice Things Up

Sprinkle in your taco seasoning, chili powder, cumin, and a dash of salt and pepper. Mix well to coat the meat evenly. This is the secret moment when your One-Pot Taco Pasta begins to taste just like the best taco night ever, as the spices meld into the meat.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Pasta

Pour in the broth, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and your uncooked pasta. Give everything a good stir to ensure all the pasta is submerged and ready to soak up those rich flavors. Turn up the heat, bring it all to a gentle boil, and get ready for a simmering transformation.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Lower the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally so the pasta cooks evenly and nothing sticks. You’ll know it’s ready when the pasta is perfectly al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed, leaving you with a thick, glossy sauce.

Step 6: Make It Creamy & Cheesy

Now for the grand finale: remove the pot from the heat and immediately stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream. Watch as everything turns ultra-creamy, with ribbons of melting cheese throughout. Taste and adjust seasoning if you like, and that’s it – One-Pot Taco Pasta is ready to serve!

How to Serve One-Pot Taco Pasta

Garnishes

Freshen up your hot pot of One-Pot Taco Pasta with a flurry of chopped cilantro for color and brightness. If you love some spice, scatter sliced jalapeños over top, or try a dash of extra cheddar for the ultimate melty finish. These simple extras make every bowl feel special and restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

Although One-Pot Taco Pasta is hearty and self-contained, it pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, a side of tortilla chips, or even simple sautéed corn. For a Tex-Mex feast, serve it alongside guacamole and a platter of lime wedges to squeeze over just before eating – pure joy!

Creative Ways to Present

Set up a build-your-own taco pasta bar for a fun, family-style dinner: let everyone top their bowl with favorites like diced avocado, crushed tortilla chips, chopped scallions, or a swirl of hot sauce. This makes One-Pot Taco Pasta a total crowd-pleaser for gatherings and weeknights alike!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To store leftover One-Pot Taco Pasta, let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days, and rest easy knowing that the flavors only get better as they mingle overnight.

Freezing

For longer storage, this dish freezes like a dream. Place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible. It will keep well for up to 2 months; just thaw in the fridge before reheating to help retain the creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat One-Pot Taco Pasta gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if you notice the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally until hot and creamy throughout, and don’t forget to refresh with a sprinkle of cheese or cilantro if you like!

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of meat?

Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly forgiving. Swap in ground chicken, pork, or even a plant-based meat alternative if desired – the One-Pot Taco Pasta sauce will cling beautifully to any protein.

What kind of pasta works best?

Sturdy shapes like penne or rotini are my top picks because they hold sauce and add texture, but honestly, just about any short pasta (like shells or fusilli) will work if that’s what’s in your pantry.

Is this dish spicy?

As written, One-Pot Taco Pasta is family-friendly with a gentle kick. For more heat, add extra chili powder, swap in hot taco seasoning, or top individual bowls with sliced jalapeños to customize the spice level.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Definitely! Skip the meat and sub in an extra can of beans (like black beans or pinto beans) for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken for a fully vegetarian One-Pot Taco Pasta.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this is a fantastic recipe to double for guests or leftovers. Just use a large enough pot to handle the extra volume, and adjust simmer time as needed so that all the pasta cooks evenly.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this One-Pot Taco Pasta enough for anyone in need of a seriously delicious, family-approved meal that’s a cinch to make and totally satisfying. Give it a try, share it with friends, and don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes your go-to comfort dish!

One-Pot Taco Pasta Recipe