Streamline your weeknight dinner with our One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s an ideal choice for busy nights. This recipe brings together the classic taste of tacos with a pasta twist, all in a single pot.

• Cuisine: Mexican-American
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Cleanup: Everything cooks in one pot, saving you time on dishes.
• Kid-Friendly: The comforting cheesy flavor appeals to both kids and adults.
• Customizable: Add your favorite taco toppings to make it your own.
• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for a fast dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef: Provides the hearty base. Optionally, substitute with ground turkey for a lighter version.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the beef.
• Pinch of black pepper: Adds a subtle heat, enhancing the dish’s depth.
• 1 ounce packet taco seasoning (or about 3 1/2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning): Delivers bold, spicy taco flavor. Can use a mix of paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and chili powder if you make your own.
• 2 cups water: Helps cook the pasta right in the sauce, infusing it with flavor.
• 1 cup jarred mild salsa: Contributes a base of tomato flavor and spices. Can be substituted with homemade salsa.
• 8 ounces uncooked rotini pasta: Absorbs the sauce well; opt for whole grain for added nutrition.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican-style cheese: Melts into a creamy sauce; cheddar or Monterey Jack can also be used.
• Optional toppings – chopped tomatoes (avocado, crushed tortilla chips, chopped cilantro): Add freshness and texture as you prefer.

How to Make It

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Preheat a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and season it with salt and pepper to enhance the meat’s natural flavors. Cook the beef, stirring occasionally, until it is uniformly browned with no pink remaining. Proper browning adds depth and seals in juices. Drain any excess grease to reduce fat in the final dish.

Step 2: Add Base Ingredients

Stir the taco seasoning into the cooked beef, ensuring every bit is coated for full flavor integration. Then, add the water, salsa, and rotini pasta. Mix well to combine, ensuring the pasta is submerged in liquid to cook evenly.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, stir to redistribute the pasta, cover the skillet, and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Finish with Cheese

Turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheese until it melts completely, creating a creamy and cheesy sauce. This final touch brings everything together into a comforting and cohesive dish. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Serve and Optional Toppings

Serve the pasta hot, topped with your choice of optional toppings, like chopped tomatoes, avocado, crushed tortilla chips, or chopped cilantro, for added flavor and texture.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, other short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli work well, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Just ensure the pasta is cooked to al dente.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add more heat, incorporate finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when cooking the beef, or use a spicier salsa.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

For a meatless option, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative, or use beans such as black or kidney beans for protein.