Easy Taco Pasta: A Quick & Cheesy One-Pan Dinner Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that combines all the best things about tacos and pasta, you’ve got to try this Easy Taco Pasta: A Quick & Cheesy One-Pan Dinner Recipe. It’s bright, flavorful, and comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it an absolute lifesaver during busy weeknights. Imagine tender pasta swimming in a rich, cheesy taco sauce, packed with savory ground beef and vibrant bell peppers—comfort food with a fiesta twist. This recipe is perfect for anyone craving something hearty but fuss-free, and trust me, once you make it, it’ll instantly become one of your go-to dinner ideas.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Everything about this dish is wonderfully simple, starting with a handful of essential ingredients that pack a punch in flavor and texture. Each component plays its own role, whether it’s the hearty ground beef bringing that meaty depth, or the bell peppers adding a subtle sweetness and pop of color. The taco seasoning spices things up just right, and the cheddar cheese? That’s the gooey finish that makes this pasta irresistible.

• 1 lb. ButcherBox Ground Beef: The star protein that makes this pasta satisfyingly meaty and filling.
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth that enriches the overall flavor.
• ½ tablespoon minced garlic (about 2 cloves): Brings aromatic warmth and a hint of zest to every bite.
• 2 cups diced red bell pepper: For that essential crunch and vibrant splash of color.
• 2 tablespoons low sodium taco seasoning: Packs a flavorful punch without overwhelming the dish.
• 3 cups medium shell pasta (about 10 oz): Holds onto the sauce perfectly, making every forkful deliciously saucy.
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Adds richness and a subtle tang to the sauce, enhancing the taco flavor profile.
• 2 cups beef broth: Creates a savory base that infuses the pasta with all those meaty, comforting notes.
• 2 cups water: Keeps everything perfectly hydrated so the pasta cooks just right.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into creamy goodness that brings the whole dish together.

How to Make Easy Taco Pasta: A Quick & Cheesy One-Pan Dinner Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Sauté the Meat and Veggies

Start by spraying a large pan or pot with olive oil spray and warming it over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes. Then add your ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell peppers. Let them cook together for around 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is no longer pink and the veggies soften just enough to release their natural sweetness. This forms the flavorful foundation of your taco pasta.

Step 2: Add Pasta and Seasonings

Next, stir in the dry pasta shells, along with the taco seasoning and tomato paste. Pour in the beef broth and water, then give everything a good mix so that all the ingredients are evenly combined. Cover your pan, crank the heat to bring the mixture to a boil—this usually takes about 5 minutes. This step is where your pasta begins to soak up all those wonderful taco-inspired flavors.

Step 3: Simmer Until Perfect

Once the liquid reaches a boil, take the lid off and reduce the heat to medium. Now it’s important to stir every few minutes during the next 10 to 12 minutes. This keeps the pasta from sticking to the bottom while it absorbs the liquid, thickening into that rich, saucy texture you’re aiming for. When the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has evaporated, you’re almost ready to finish.

Step 4: Melt in the Cheese

Finally, remove the pan from the heat and sprinkle in your shredded cheddar cheese. Stir it right through the pasta so it melts into a luscious, gooey sauce that ties the whole dish together with cheesy, comforting goodness. This final touch is what makes the Easy Taco Pasta: A Quick & Cheesy One-Pan Dinner Recipe feel indulgent and soul-satisfying.

How to Serve Easy Taco Pasta: A Quick & Cheesy One-Pan Dinner Recipe

Garnishes

Elevate your taco pasta by sprinkling fresh garnishes on top. Think chopped cilantro for a burst of herbal brightness, sliced green onions for a mild crunch, or a dollop of sour cream to balance the spices with cool creaminess. If you like a little heat, crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños make fantastic toppings too.

Side Dishes

This dish is filling on its own but pairs beautifully with some lighter sides. A simple green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette complements the cheesy pasta perfectly, or try serving it alongside a bowl of chips and fresh salsa to keep with the taco theme. Roasted corn or black beans also round out the meal nicely and add extra texture and flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun family dinner, serve the Easy Taco Pasta: A Quick & Cheesy One-Pan Dinner Recipe straight from the pan in a colorful casserole dish. You can also dish portions into small individual bowls topped with a sprinkle of cheese and fresh herbs for a more polished look. If you’re hosting, consider layering it in a bake with extra cheese on top and broiling just before serving for a bubbly, golden crust.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Easy Taco Pasta: A Quick & Cheesy One-Pan Dinner Recipe tastes just as delicious the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen a bit overnight, so it makes for a perfect lunch or dinner option when you’re short on time.

Freezing

If you want to save portions for even longer, this dish freezes well. Simply let it cool completely, then pack into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the pasta’s texture might be a touch softer after freezing, but the bold taco flavors will still shine through.

Reheating

Reheat your leftover Easy Taco Pasta on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water or broth as needed to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, stirring every minute or so until heated evenly. Adding a little extra cheese on top before reheating freshens it up beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey makes a leaner alternative and still pairs wonderfully with the taco seasoning and cheesy sauce. Just be mindful to cook it thoroughly and adjust seasoning to your taste.

What pasta shape works best for this recipe?

Medium shell pasta is perfect because it holds the sauce well, but you can also use elbow macaroni or small penne. Avoid very thin pastas as they might get mushy during cooking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The original recipe uses traditional wheat pasta, which is not gluten-free. However, you can easily swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta to make the dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diners without sacrificing flavor.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Sure! Just substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or extra beans like black beans or pinto beans. The taco seasoning and cheesy sauce will still give you plenty of flavor.

How spicy is the Easy Taco Pasta: A Quick & Cheesy One-Pan Dinner Recipe?

This recipe is mildly spiced thanks to the taco seasoning, making it accessible for most tastes. You can always bump up the heat by adding diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra chili powder if you like it spicy.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Taco Pasta: A Quick & Cheesy One-Pan Dinner Recipe is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day. It’s comforting, cheesy, and loaded with bold flavors that everyone at the table will love. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it’s a fantastic dish to have on hand when dinner needs to come together quickly without skimping on taste. Give it a try—you might just be adding a new favorite to your recipe rotation!

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