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Easy One-Pot Taco Pasta Recipe

Easy One-Pot Taco Pasta Recipe

This cozy one-pan dinner brings together taco-seasoned beef, tender pasta, beans, and melty cheese. Everything cooks in a single pot for a fast, family-friendly meal and easy cleanup.
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup diced yellow onion
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 tbsp minced garlic
  • 2 tbsp taco seasoning
  • 14.5 oz diced tomatoes with green chiles one can, undrained
  • 3 cup beef broth
  • 12 oz short pasta (shells or rotini) uncooked
  • 15 oz black beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn kernels frozen or canned, drained
  • 0.75 tsp kosher salt plus more to taste
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 3 oz cream cheese cut into small cubes
  • 1.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 0.25 cup chopped cilantro plus more for serving

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Warm the oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  • Sauté the onion until softened and lightly golden, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  • Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned. Drain any excess fat.
  • Stir in the garlic and taco seasoning; cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth, scraping up any browned bits on the bottom.
  • Add the pasta, corn, and black beans. Stir well and press the pasta under the liquid.
  • Bring to a boil, reduce to a lively simmer, cover, and cook 12 to 14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
  • Lower the heat. Stir in the cream cheese until the sauce turns smooth and creamy.
  • Fold in half the cheddar to melt. Sprinkle the rest on top, cover 1 to 2 minutes to melt.
  • Finish with lime juice and cilantro. Taste and adjust salt and pepper, then serve hot.

Notes

Variation: Swap the beef for ground turkey or add a diced bell pepper with the onion. For extra heat, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes with the taco seasoning.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Easy One-Pot Taco Pasta Recipe flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.