Name: One Pot Beef Taco Pasta (30 minutes)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 Tbsp. olive oil; 1 lb. ground beef; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 Tbsp. taco seasoning (I use Outside Table); 2½ cups low-sodium beef broth; ½ cup milk; 1 (8-oz.) can tomato sauce; 2 cups mini farfalle pasta (or any small pasta shape: elbows, mini penne); ½ cup Cotija cheese, crumbled; Crushed tortilla chips and chopped cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)

A hearty, flavorful twist on taco night, this One Pot Beef Taco Pasta brings together seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and melty cheese in a single skillet. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the perfect busy-weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Minimal cleanup: everything cooks in one pot, so you spend less time washing dishes.
Quick and satisfying: with a total time of just 30 minutes, it’s ideal for hectic evenings.
Family-friendly flavor: combines the familiar tastes of tacos with comforting pasta—kids and adults both approve.
Customizable: easily adjust spice levels, swap proteins, or sneak in extra vegetables to suit your tastes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium white onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
1 pound lean ground beef
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 (4-ounce) can chopped green chiles, undrained
8 ounces (about 2 cups) elbow pasta (or mini penne, rotini)
2 cups beef broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, plus more for garnish

Directions

Sauté aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper; cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it up with a spoon and cook until no longer pink, about 5–6 minutes. Drain excess fat if desired.
Season: Sprinkle the taco seasoning, smoked paprika, and cumin over the beef. Stir to coat and toast the spices for 1 minute.
Add liquids and pasta: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), green chiles, and beef broth. Stir in the pasta, ensuring it’s mostly submerged.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the liquid has mostly absorbed.
Finish with cheese: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Spoon into bowls and garnish with extra cheese, chopped cilantro, or sliced green onions if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Turkey Taco Pasta: Substitute ground turkey for beef for a lighter version.
Vegetarian: Use plant-based “beef” crumbles or cooked lentils, and swap beef broth for vegetable broth.
Spicy twist: Add a diced jalapeño with the onions or use a hot taco seasoning.
Cheesy blend: Mix in pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheese along with cheddar for extra creaminess.
Veggie boost: Stir in a cup of frozen corn or chopped zucchini during the simmer step.

Storage/reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a sealed, freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
Reheating microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.

FAQs

What pasta shape works best?

Elbow pasta, mini penne, or rotini hold the sauce beautifully and cook evenly in the one-pot method.

Can I use homemade taco seasoning?

Absolutely. A mix of chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper makes an excellent DIY blend.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Choose a certified gluten-free pasta. Ensure your taco seasoning and broth are also gluten-free.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Omit the cheese or use a dairy-free substitute. Coconut or oat milk can replace part of the broth for extra creaminess.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes. Use a larger pot and increase cooking liquid proportionally. You may need an extra minute or two for simmering.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level depends on your taco seasoning. For milder heat, use a mild mix; for more kick, use hot seasoning or add chopped jalapeños.

Can I prep this ahead?

You can chop vegetables and measure spices in advance. Cook just before serving for the best texture.

What toppings complement this pasta?

Offer sour cream, sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, lime wedges, or pickled jalapeños for garnish.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?

Stir occasionally during simmering and ensure the pasta is mostly submerged in liquid when you start cooking.

Can I use ground chicken or pork?

Yes. Ground chicken or pork work well—adjust seasoning and cooking times as needed for proper browning.

Conclusion

One Pot Beef Taco Pasta is a straightforward, crowd-pleasing meal that unites the beloved flavors of tacos with the comfort of pasta. With minimal prep, easy cleanup, and plenty of room for customization, it’s destined to become a weeknight staple in your home. Enjoy the perfect blend of convenience and taste in every cheesy, taco-infused bite.