There's nothing better than a hearty, cheesy, and flavor-packed meal that comes together in just one pot. This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta is the ultimate weeknight dinner – combining the bold flavors of a classic taco with the comforting, creamy texture of pasta. Best of all, it's ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when time is short but cravings are high.
I first made this recipe on a whim when I had taco-seasoned ground beef leftover from taco night but wanted something different. A little improvisation led to one of the best accidental creations ever! Now, this dish is on our regular meal rotation, and it's always a hit with the whole family.
Why You'll Love This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta
Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite dinner. This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, with minimal cleanup required!
First, it's quick and easy. In just about 25 minutes, you’ll have a rich, cheesy pasta dish infused with bold taco flavors—all cooked in one pot.
Second, it's budget-friendly. This recipe uses simple, affordable pantry staples like ground beef, pasta, and canned tomatoes, making it a cost-effective meal for the whole family.
It’s also kid-approved. If your little ones love tacos and pasta, this dish is the perfect combination of both. The creamy, cheesy texture makes it extra appealing.
Finally, it’s customizable. You can spice it up with jalapeños, add extra veggies like bell peppers or corn, or swap the protein for ground turkey or chicken.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of this One Pot Beef Taco Pasta lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component adds something special to the dish.
Ground beef is the base of this recipe, bringing hearty, savory richness. I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and texture. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works just as well.
Taco seasoning is the star of the show, infusing the pasta with bold Mexican-inspired spices. You can use a store-bought packet or make your own blend using chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
Diced tomatoes with green chilies add a punch of acidity and a little heat. They help create a flavorful sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. If you prefer a milder version, use plain diced tomatoes instead.
Pasta is the heart of this dish. Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or shells work best because they hold onto the creamy sauce and taco flavors.
Cheddar cheese melts into the sauce, making it extra creamy and indulgent. I recommend freshly grating your cheese for the best melt and texture. A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack also works well!
How To Make This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta

Making this One Pot Beef Taco Pasta is as easy as it gets! Let me walk you through the process step by step.
Start by heating a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then toss in your ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain any excess grease if needed.
Next, stir in the taco seasoning and mix well to coat the beef evenly. This step is key for building flavor—let the spices toast slightly to bring out their full aroma.
Pour in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, along with some beef broth. Stir to combine, then add your uncooked pasta. Make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid to cook evenly.
Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and cover. Let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Once the pasta is perfectly cooked, remove the lid and stir in the cheddar cheese. The residual heat will melt the cheese, creating a creamy, cheesy taco-inspired sauce. Give everything a good mix, and you're ready to serve!
Total cooking time is just 25 minutes, making this dish a lifesaver on busy nights.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), this One Pot Beef Taco Pasta stores beautifully.
For refrigeration, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge.
For freezing, portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Variations and Substitutions
This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta is incredibly versatile. Here are some fun ways to switch it up:
If you prefer a healthier version, swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. It’s lighter but still packed with flavor.
For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes works too.
Want to add more veggies? Stir in bell peppers, corn, or black beans for extra texture and nutrition.
If you love a creamier sauce, mix in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese at the end. It adds an extra layer of richness.
For a low-carb option, swap regular pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. You’ll still get the delicious taco flavors without the carbs!
No matter how you make it, this One Pot Beef Taco Pasta is bound to become a family favorite. Give it a try tonight and enjoy the best of both worlds—tacos and pasta in one bowl!
PrintOne Pot Beef Taco Pasta Recipe
This One Pot Beef Taco Pasta is a quick and easy dinner packed with bold taco flavors, seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and gooey cheese. Made in just one pot, this hearty meal is perfect for busy weeknights and satisfies the whole family!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Pasta, One-Pot Meals
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 ½ cups uncooked pasta (elbow or shell)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp chili powder (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in taco seasoning.
- Pour in beef broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Bring to a simmer.
- Stir in pasta and cook until tender, about 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally.
- Lower heat and mix in heavy cream (if using) and cheddar cheese until melted.
- Garnish with cilantro and serve hot!
Notes
- Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner version.
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack for a spicier kick.
- Top with sour cream or avocado for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 820mg
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