One Pot Taco Pasta – Get ready, for an adventure with our One Pot Taco Pasta recipe! This amazing blend of Mexican flavors is flawless for those evenings when you want an enjoyable meal without the nuisance. Filled with cheesy goodness and perfectly seasoned this dish is a favorite among families. Can be prepared in just 30 minutes.
The first time I tried making One Pot Taco Pasta, the smell of sizzling beef and aromatic spices wafted through my kitchen capturing the attention of my husband and child instantly. As the pasta cooked, releasing a symphony of flavors I couldn’t help to smile in anticipation of sharing this creation with my loved ones. Their first bites were met with joy and requests for seconds transforming this recipe into a tradition for our family.
What makes this One Pot Taco Pasta truly special?
Embark on a journey, with our One Pot Taco Pasta – it’s a harmonious fusion of American and Mexican cuisines. In half an hour you can indulge in this effortless one-pot wonder that brings families together. What makes this dish truly special is its endearing mixture of easy preparation, tiniest cleanup and a creamy texture acquired by mixing Cheddar Monterey Jack and Velveeta cheeses perfectly.
It’s more than a meal; it’s an adventure that carries you deep into the realm of delightful, cheesy luxury—a genuine testament to the mysticism that occurs when simplicity intertwines, with exceptional flavor. Turn your nighttime into culinary extravaganzas with this wonderful recipe that is infallible to become a beloved dearest.
What You Need To Make This One Pot Taco Pasta Recipe?
Cheddar Cheese & Monterey Jack Cheese: Meet our dynamic duo, Cheddar and Monterey Jack. Think of them as the cheesy power couple, ready to add richness and a melty hug to every forkful. Shred them straight from the block and let them mingle; they play best when they’re room temperature. Their mission? To turn this One Pot Taco Pasta into a gooey, savory masterpiece.
Velveeta Cheese: Here comes Velveeta, the smooth operator. Cut it into cubes or swap it for shredded cheese—it’s your call. This cheese brings a velvety creaminess to the party, ensuring that every bite is a luxurious experience. Picture it as the VIP guest in our flavor soiree.
Ground Beef (85% lean): Our culinary MVP, ground beef, steps into the limelight. Crumble it, cook it to savory perfection, and watch it become the backbone of our dish. It’s not just meat; it’s the heart and soul, infusing a hearty flavor that’ll make you the kitchen hero.
Butter & Garlic: Enter the aromatic sidekicks—butter and garlic. Melt the butter, toss in the garlic, and let the kitchen fill with a symphony of scents. They’re the storytellers, adding depth and warmth to the tale of your One Pot Taco Pasta.
Taco Seasoning, Worcestershire Sauce, & Tomato Paste: Now, let’s talk about the flavor trio: taco seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste. They’re the spice, the umami, and the rich depth of our plot. Each brings its unique note to the table, ensuring that every bite is a flavorful journey.
Beef Broth, Chicken Broth, & Whole Milk: Our liquid ensemble—beef broth, chicken broth, and whole milk—adds the plot twists. They’re the storytellers, infusing depth and creaminess. Pour them in, let them mingle, and witness the transformation of your One Pot Taco Pasta into a tale of comfort and indulgence.
Rotel Tomatoes with Green Chilies: Cue the zesty sidekick—Rotel Tomatoes with green chilies. Straight from the can, undrained, they bring a kick that’s both bold and playful. They’re the unexpected twist that keeps things interesting.
Medium Pasta Shells: Last but certainly not least, our unsung hero—the medium pasta shells. They’re not just noodles; they’re the canvas soaking up all the flavors, ensuring that each bite is a perfect harmony of cheesy, savory goodness.
Steps To Make One Pot Taco Pasta:
Step 1: Begin by grating the Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese from a block and set them aside making sure they are, at room temperature.
Step 2: In a pot or Dutch oven with high walls. Crumble the ground beef over medium-high heat. Once cooked drain off the grease.
Step 3: Melt butter in the pot. Add minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute to allow the garlic to release its flavor.
Step 4: Add all remaining ingredients except for the cheese and pasta. Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 5: Bring the mixture to a boil then add the pasta ensuring it is fully submerged in the liquid. Cook according to the instructions, on the package remembering to stir through with a spatula to incorporate any settled ingredients.
Step 6: Once the pasta is cooked to your liking reduce heat to low. Gradually stir in the shredded cheeses until they are fully melted.
Step 7: The dish will have an amount of sauce that will thicken as it sits. To check if the noodles are cooked properly taste test one and adjust the cooking time if necessary.
Step 8: Serve your One Pot Taco Pasta when you’ve achieved your desired consistency enjoying each bite that brings together a symphony of flavors.
Tip:
To add a level of indulgence set aside an amount of the shredded Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese before you start cooking. Once your One Pot Taco Pasta is prepared and ready to be served sprinkle this reserved cheese on the top. The heat, from the dish will melt it into a mouthwatering layer of gooey goodness elevating the tastiness and leaving a cheesy sensation on every plate. It’s this touch that transforms the dish from delicious, to luxurious leaving your taste buds amazed.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Of course! You are more than welcome to try out types of pasta for this dish. It’s a way to personalize the recipe and make it your own.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
If you need to prepare the dish ahead of time it is possible. Although I must say that it is best enjoyed when freshly made. If you do decide to make it in advance you can reheat it on the stove with a bit of milk to bring back its texture.
Can I make it spicier?
If you prefer a flavor absolutely! You can easily adjust the level of heat by adding taco seasoning, chili powder or even your favorite hot sauce. This way you can tailor it to your personal taste preferences.
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
One Pot Taco Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 c Cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 c Monterey Jack Cheese shredded
- 4 ounces Velveeta cheese cut into cubes (equal to 1/3 c) - can sub with ¾ c shredded cheese
- 1 pound Ground Beef 85% lean
- 1 tbsp Butter
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 ounce packet Taco Seasoning
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1 c Beef broth
- 1 c Chicken broth
- 1 c Whole milk at room temp
- 1 10 ounces can Rotel Tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- ½ pound Medium pasta shells
Instructions
- Shred Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese and set aside.
- In a high-walled pot, cook and crumble ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain grease.
- Melt butter in the same pot, add minced garlic, and cook for 1 minute.
- Add taco seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, chicken broth, whole milk, and undrained Rotel Tomatoes to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, add pasta, cover, and cook following package instructions. Lift any settled ingredients halfway through.
- Once pasta is cooked, turn heat to low. Gradually stir in shredded cheeses until melted.
- The dish will be saucy, but it will thicken upon standing. Taste-test a noodle for doneness.
- Serve once desired consistency is obtained and relish in the cheesy, flavorful goodness!
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!