One-pot meals have become my go-to solution for a quick and easy dinner. By cooking everything in a single vessel, I’ve found that not only is cleanup a breeze, but the meal itself comes together remarkably swiftly. Case in point: this one-pot cheesy taco pasta, which has become a staple in our household. The combination of ground beef, onion, garlic, and a medley of savory spices creates a comforting dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
This creamy taco pasta with macaroni noodles is an absolute winner – it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or even a special occasion. The rich flavors of beef, onion, and garlic meld together beautifully, while the addition of tomatoes, broth, cream, pasta, beans, corn, and cheese elevates the dish to new heights.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility – feel free to customize it to your taste by substituting taco seasoning for the individual spices. Cumin, oregano, paprika, and cayenne are my preferred choices, but ultimately the decision comes down to personal preference.
How to Make One Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta
This one-pot ground beef recipe is incredibly straightforward. Start by cooking the beef, garlic, and onion until they’re well combined. Next, add the tomato paste and spices to give it a boost of flavor. Then, introduce the broth, tomatoes, and cream, stirring everything together. Once the pasta is in the pot, let it cook while occasionally stirring to ensure everything melds together harmoniously. The key to achieving perfection with one-pot recipes like this skillet pasta dinner lies in regular stirring – aim for at least a stir every couple of minutes. As you near the end, add the corn and beans, followed by a sprinkle of cheese. Season with salt and pepper as needed before serving. I assure you that this creamy taco pasta with macaroni noodles will put a radiant smile on your face! Keep in mind that the pasta may require an extra minute or two to cook due to its surrounding ingredients. Package instructions might suggest 10 minutes, but consider allowing it 12 instead. If you prefer slightly softer pasta, taste a piece and adjust cooking time as needed.
Easy Taco Pasta Tips
When preparing one-pot cheesy taco pasta, consider these helpful tips! It’s essential to take into account the type of pasta being used, as some may require more liquid to cook than others. If the mixture in the pot appears too dry, simply add a bit more liquid. On the other hand, if you find yourself with excess liquid, you can always reserve some for serving alongside your macaroni noodles. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, allowing for effortless adjustments. To give it an extra boost, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chilli powder to the mixture for an added kick. Alternatively, red pepper flakes can provide a subtle heat. For those who prefer a milder taste, this easy taco pasta stands on its own without any additional seasoning.
One Pot Recipe with Ground Beef Variations
If you want to personalize the one pot cheesy taco pasta recipe, you’re probably wondering how to make it your own. This is where the fun begins! Not only can you adjust the level of spiciness to suit your taste buds, but you can also get creative with other aspects of the dish. Why not add an extra layer of cheesiness? I’m a self-proclaimed cheese lover and never hesitate to pile it on in my recipes! You’re free to choose your favorite type of cheese for this skillet pasta dinner – honestly, I can’t think of one that wouldn’t work beautifully. As for the black beans called for in the recipe, consider them more of a suggestion than a requirement. If you prefer kidney beans or another type of bean, go ahead and substitute! Any beans would be a delicious addition to this hearty ground beef-based pasta casserole.
How to Store One Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta
This recipe yields four servings, making it perfect for a small gathering or a meal prep situation. If you’re only cooking for two but want to enjoy this dish again in the near future, don’t worry – simply refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to three days or freeze it for up to two months. While the flavors may not be identical after reheating, the dish will remain remarkably similar, allowing you to enjoy your leftovers with minimal compromise.
One Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta
One Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta
Get ready to indulge in a comforting and flavorful one-pot cheesy taco pasta dish that’s quick to prepare and will become a family favorite. This mouthwatering recipe combines ground beef with creamy pasta and macaroni noodles, making it the perfect skillet dinner solution. With only 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time, you can have this satisfying meal ready in just 30 minutes, serving 4 people.
Instructions
As the pot heats up over medium-high heat, introduce ground beef and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, or until it loses its pink hue. Next, add minced garlic and sautéed onion, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow excess liquid to evaporate. Then, stir in a blend of spices and tomato paste, allowing the mixture to simmer for another minute to mellow out the bitterness from the tomato paste. To create a rich and creamy sauce, deglaze with a combination of beef broth, diced tomatoes, and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a rolling boil. Once achieved, pour in the pasta according to package instructions (note 2), stirring every two minutes to prevent sticking. As the pasta cooks, it should reach an al dente consistency; if no visible liquid remains, add a bit more of the reserved beef broth. Finally, stir in corn and beans, allowing them to cook for another 2 minutes or until the pasta is fully cooked. To complete the dish, stir in cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately with a garnish of your choice.