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One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta: Easy Weeknight Dinner

A close-up of creamy, cheesy taco pasta mixed with ground beef and diced tomatoes served on a white plate.

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Make this satisfying One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta for a quick, family-friendly dinner. This skillet meal blends taco flavor with creamy pasta and uses simple ingredients for minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
  • 4 cups water or broth
  • 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni or small shell pasta
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Brown the ground beef and chopped onion in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. Stir in the taco seasoning, water or broth, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  3. Add the dry pasta to the boiling liquid. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  4. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the milk and shredded cheese until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
  5. Season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately for a comforting meal.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, substitute beef broth for the water.
  • You can add half a cup of frozen corn or black beans with the liquid for extra vegetables.
  • This recipe is a great alternative to Hamburger Helper Style Recipe meals.

Nutrition