How to Make Cheesy Taco Pasta in an Instant Pot
If you’re looking for a deliciously comforting dish that combines the best of tacos and pasta, this Cheesy Taco Pasta is the answer! This recipe is not only easy to make but also loaded with bold flavors, melty cheese, and a creamy texture that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re using an Instant Pot for a quick dinner or cooking it on the stove, this cheesy taco pasta recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves a good cheesy beef taco pasta recipe. Plus, it includes a special twist with cream cheese, making it a rich and creamy delight. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish will quickly become a family favorite!
In our household, this Cheesy Taco Pasta has become a staple for those cozy nights when we all crave something hearty and satisfying. My husband, who usually prefers traditional tacos, absolutely fell in love with this dish the first time I made it. The combination of flavors reminded him of his favorite taco night, but with a creamy, cheesy twist that made it even better! Now, whenever I say I’m making cheesy taco pasta, you can see the excitement in his eyes. Even our little ones, who can be picky eaters, gobble this up without hesitation. It’s amazing how this dish has brought our family together around the dinner table, making it a go-to for busy evenings or special family nights. If you’re looking for a new family favorite, this cheesy taco cream cheese pasta recipe is it!
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Taco Pasta
There’s something magical about the combination of taco flavors and pasta, all smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce. Whether you’re a fan of tacos, pasta, or just delicious food, this dish has something for everyone. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- One-Pot Wonder: Easy cleanup means more time to relax.
- Quick & Simple: Perfect for weeknights when time is short.
- Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the cheesy, flavorful goodness.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings to make it your own.
- Comfort Food: Rich, hearty, and satisfying, it’s everything you want in a comfort meal.
Ingredients Notes For Cheesy Taco Pasta
To make this cheesy taco pasta recipe the best it can be, here are a few notes on the ingredients:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a flavorful but not overly greasy dish. You can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
- Taco Seasoning: Store-bought is convenient, but homemade seasoning can add a personal touch.
- Pasta: Use short pasta like rotini or penne, which hold the sauce well.
- Cheese: A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack gives a great melt and flavor. For extra creaminess, don’t skip the cream cheese!
- Diced Tomatoes: Adds moisture and a slight tang to balance the richness.
- Cream Cheese: This is the secret ingredient for that creamy, luxurious texture.
Recipe Steps:
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Instant Pot, cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat.
- Add Seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Mix in Tomatoes and Pasta: Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and pasta. Stir to combine.
- Cook: If using an Instant Pot, cook on high pressure for 4 minutes. If cooking on the stovetop, add enough water to cover the pasta, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until the pasta is tender.
- Make it Cheesy: Stir in the shredded cheese and cream cheese until everything is melted and creamy.
- Serve: Garnish with your favorite taco toppings like sour cream, avocado, or fresh cilantro, and enjoy!
Storage Options:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. This cheesy beef taco pasta recipe is just as delicious the next day!
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Variations & Substitutions:
- Protein Swap: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Spice Level: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with black beans or lentils for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-free diets.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?
A: Yes! You can prepare the entire dish and store it in the fridge. When ready to eat, simply reheat on the stove or microwave.
Q: Can I freeze cheesy taco pasta?
A: While it’s possible, the texture of the pasta might change slightly after freezing. If you do freeze it, thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Q: What’s the best pasta to use?
A: Short, sturdy pasta like rotini, penne, or shells work best as they hold the sauce well.
This cheesy taco pasta is sure to become a beloved dish in your home, just like it has in ours!
One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 packet 1 oz taco seasoning mix
- 1 can 10 oz diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained (such as Rotel)
- 1 cup beef broth or chicken broth
- 2 cups uncooked pasta such as elbow macaroni or rotini
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or green onions chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or turkey) until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened.
- Add Taco Seasoning: Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked meat and stir to coat evenly. Add the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (including the liquid) and the beef broth. Stir to combine.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet, making sure it is submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Add Cheese and Milk: Once the pasta is tender, stir in the milk, shredded cheddar cheese, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Finish with Sour Cream: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the sour cream. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper, if needed.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions if desired. Serve the cheesy taco pasta hot.
