If tacos and pasta had a baby, this would be it.
This one-pot taco pasta is packed with flavor and perfect for busy weeknights. It's got juicy ground beef, beans, corn, salsa, cheese, and tender pasta-all simmered together in one pot.
You get all your Tex-Mex cravings satisfied with just 30 minutes of cooking and minimal cleanup.
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Taco Pasta Video
It's cozy. It's cheesy. And it feeds a crowd-6 servings of pure comfort food.
Ingredients
- Ground beef - Lean beef (85% or 90%) works best so the dish isn't too greasy. You can also use ground turkey, chicken, or a meatless option.
- Taco seasoning - I use 2 tablespoons for a balanced flavor, but you can go up to 4 tablespoons if you want more punch. Homemade or store-bought both work!
- Uncooked pasta - Short shapes like shells, rotini, or macaroni are perfect. They hold onto the sauce and cook quickly in one pot.
- Diced tomatoes - Adds tang and sauciness. I sometimes swap in chunky salsa for extra flavor and a little kick.
- Black beans - Drained and rinsed. These make it heartier and add fiber. Pinto or kidney beans are good subs.
- Corn - Frozen or fresh both work well. If using canned corn, make sure to drain it first.
- Chicken broth - Use low-sodium if possible to better control salt. Veggie broth works fine, too!
- Cheddar cheese - I like sharp cheddar for flavor, but you can mix in mozzarella or a Mexican blend if that's what you have.
- Garlic powder - Easy pantry staple that adds depth without needing fresh garlic.
- Onion powder - Same as above. No chopping required, and it gives that cozy, homemade flavor.
- Worcestershire sauce - My not-so-secret flavor booster! Adds richness and umami that takes this from "pretty good" to "whoa."
- Tomato paste - Just a tablespoon thickens the sauce and gives it that slow-simmered feel-even though we're done in 30 minutes.
📋 You can find the full ingredient list in the Recipe Card below the article.
How To Make Taco Pasta
- Prep: Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
- Cook the beef: Add beef and onion. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
- Add seasonings: Stir in taco seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the pasta: Add uncooked pasta, diced tomatoes (or salsa), black beans, corn, broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook 8-12 minutes, stirring occasionally so nothing sticks. Add more broth if it looks dry on top.
- Once pasta is tender, stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm with toppings of choice!
Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely-just check the cooking time on the box and adjust as needed.
Tips
- Make it cheesier. Add extra cheddar and a splash of broth to help melt it evenly.
- Spice it up. Want heat? Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce when sautéing.
- Use what you have. Salsa instead of diced tomatoes works great. Any pasta shape will do!
- Veggie boost. Toss in bell peppers or spinach during the last few minutes.
- Control the salt. Use low-sodium broth to adjust salt to your liking.
What to Serve With Taco Pasta
This is a full meal on its own, but here are some easy add-ons:
- A refreshing cucumber tomato salad or pico de gallo
- Crispy tortilla chips and guac
- Roasted zucchini or bell peppers
Storing Leftovers
- To Store. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- To Freeze. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- To Reheat. Warm on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to keep it creamy.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken?
Yes! Just swap 1:1 for ground beef and keep the rest of the recipe the same.
More Mexican-Inspired Recipes
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Recipe Card
One Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.1 tablespoon avocado or olive oil
- Add beef and onion. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.1 pound ground beef
- Stir in taco seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.2 tablespoons taco seasoning, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Add uncooked pasta, diced tomatoes (or salsa), black beans, corn, broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce.8 ounces uncooked pasta, 1 15-ounce can canned diced tomatoes (don't drain) or 1 cup salsa picante, 1 15-ounce can canned black beans, drained and rinsed, 1 cup corn, 2 ¼ cups chicken broth, 1 tablespoon tomato paste, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook 8-12 minutes, stirring occasionally so nothing sticks. Add more broth if it looks dry on top.
- Once pasta is tender, stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.1 cup cheddar cheese
- Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm with toppings of choice!½ teaspoon salt or more to taste, ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Nutrition
Video
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