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–+ servings
One Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta

Irresistibly Easy One Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta for Busy Nights

This One Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta combines the flavors of tacos in a creamy, delicious dish, perfect for busy nights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 4 servings
Calories 650 kcal

Equipment

  • large pot or Dutch oven

Ingredients
  

For the Meat

  • 1 lb Ground Beef can substitute with ground turkey or plant-based meat

For the Spice Blend

  • 1 tsp Ground Cumin can substitute with chili powder
  • 1 tbsp Dried Minced Onion or fresh onions sautéed
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder can substitute with fresh garlic

For the Sauce

  • 2 tbsp Tomato Paste or enchilada sauce
  • 0.5 cup Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles Rotel is a popular choice
  • 1 cup Beef Broth vegetable broth for vegetarian option
  • 1 cup Whole Milk or plant-based milk
  • 1 cup Water omit if more broth is preferred

For the Pasta

  • 8 oz Shell Pasta other pasta types can be used

For the Cheese

  • 1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese or pepper jack for spice
  • 1 cup Mild Cheddar Cheese any cheese can work

Instructions
 

Main Instructions

  • Brown the Meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, brown 1 lb of ground beef with the spices until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Add Sauce Ingredients: Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, ½ cup of diced tomatoes, 1 cup of beef broth, and 1 cup of whole milk. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
  • Cook the Pasta: Add in 8 oz of uncooked shell pasta and let it simmer on medium-low, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender, about 10-12 minutes.
  • Incorporate the Cheese: Lower the heat and stir in shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese until melted and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Serve and Enjoy: Dish out warm pasta and top with taco toppings such as sour cream, cilantro, or avocado.

Notes

Optional: Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips for added crunch. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg
Keyword comfort food, Easy Dinner, family meal, One Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta, Quick Recipes, taco pasta
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