Taco Pasta (One Pot)

Introduction

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with a rich, creamy pasta that brings together the beloved flavors of tacos. I recently made Taco Pasta for my family, and it was an instant hit. The combination of cheesy goodness, seasoned ground beef, and tender pasta all cooked in one pot made for an incredibly satisfying meal with minimal cleanup. My kids couldn’t get enough, and even my picky eater went back for seconds. This recipe has quickly become a staple in our home, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Ingredients

• Cheeses:
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 4 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed (or 3/4 cup shredded cheese)
• For the Meat Sauce:
• 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
• 1 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 oz packet taco seasoning
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• Liquids:
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
• 1 (10 oz) can Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
• Pasta:
• 1/2 lb medium pasta shells (or other short pasta)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cheese:
Shred the Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese and set aside to bring to room temperature.

2. Cook the Beef:
In a large, high-walled pot or Dutch oven, cook and crumble the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too greasy.

3. Add Butter and Garlic:
Melt the butter in the pot with the beef. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, ensuring it doesn’t burn.

4. Add Liquids and Seasoning:
Stir in the taco seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste. Pour in the beef broth, chicken broth, milk, and undrained Rotel tomatoes, mixing well to combine all the flavors.

5. Add Pasta:
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and submerge it in the liquid. Cover the pot and cook according to the pasta package instructions, stirring halfway through to prevent sticking.

6. Check Pasta Doneness:
After the recommended cooking time, remove the lid and test the pasta for doneness. If needed, cook a bit longer until it reaches your desired texture.

7. Add Cheese:
Once the pasta is cooked, turn the heat to low. Gradually stir in the shredded Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Velveeta until melted and creamy. Let the pasta sit for a few minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.

8. Serve:
Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, cheesy taco pasta! It’s perfect for a hearty meal any time of the week.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 550 calories

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve

• Garnish: Top with fresh cilantro, diced green onions, or sliced jalapeños for added flavor.
• Accompaniments: Serve with tortilla chips or warm bread for dipping.
• Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad to balance the richness.
• Sour Cream: Offer sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side for a cooling effect.
• Leftovers: Pack in containers for easy reheating throughout the week.

Additional Tips

1. Ground Meat Variations: Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
2. Spice Level: Adjust the taco seasoning or add extra chili powder for more heat.
3. Make it Vegetarian: Replace the meat with black beans or lentils for a plant-based version.
4. Cheese Options: Mix different cheeses like Pepper Jack or Colby for varied flavor.
5. Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the pasta to ensure it doesn’t become mushy.

Recipe Variations

• Mexican Street Corn Taco Pasta: Add corn and a squeeze of lime for a fresh twist.
• Buffalo Chicken Taco Pasta: Swap out beef for shredded buffalo chicken and add ranch seasoning.
• Taco Pasta Bake: Transfer the finished pasta to a baking dish, top with more cheese, and broil until bubbly and golden.

Serving Suggestions

• Taco Night: Serve as a main dish for a taco-themed dinner alongside classic toppings.
• Game Day Treat: Perfect for parties or game day gatherings; just set out bowls of toppings.
• Family Dinner: A great choice for family dinners that appeal to all ages.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: This pasta dish freezes well; cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and heat on the stove with a splash of milk to revive the creamy texture.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   Yes, you can use any short pasta, such as rotini or penne.
2. What if I don’t have taco seasoning?
   You can make your own using chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Is this dish gluten-free?
   To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and check the broth and seasonings for gluten content.
4. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
   Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with black beans, lentils, or a meat substitute.
5. How spicy is this dish?
   The spice level depends on the taco seasoning and Rotel tomatoes used; adjust according to your taste.
6. Can I add vegetables?
   Yes, bell peppers, corn, or spinach can be added for extra nutrition.
7. What cheese can I substitute for Velveeta?
   You can use additional shredded cheese or a cheese sauce for a similar creaminess.
8. How long does it take to cook the pasta?
   Cooking time varies by pasta type; follow package instructions and stir occasionally.
9. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
   You can prepare the meat sauce ahead, then cook the pasta just before serving.
10. What can I serve with Taco Pasta?
    A side salad, garlic bread, or fruit salad pairs nicely with this dish.

Conclusion

Taco Pasta (One Pot) is the perfect blend of comfort food and convenience, bringing the beloved flavors of tacos into a hearty pasta dish that everyone will love. With its creamy texture, rich taste, and ease of preparation, this recipe is destined to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, Taco Pasta delivers on all fronts. Enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite!

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