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Taco Pasta (One Pot!) – A Cheesy, Hearty, Flavor-Packed Comfort Meal Made Easy in Just One Pot

When two comfort-food favorites come together, the result is pure magic. Taco Pasta (One Pot!) combines the bold, savory flavors of tacos with the creamy, satisfying texture of pasta — all cooked together in a single pot for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup. This dish is cozy, filling, and incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or whenever you need a meal that everyone will love. What makes this recipe stand out is how effortlessly it delivers big flavor. As the pasta cooks directly in the seasoned broth, it absorbs every bit of the taco-inspired spices, creating a rich, deeply flavorful sauce without the need for extra steps. Tender chicken or beef, tomatoes, pasta, and spices simmer together into a comforting, creamy dish that feels indulgent while still being practical and satisfying. This one-pot taco pasta is also wonderfully versatile. You can adjust the spice level, add vegetables, or tweak the creaminess to suit your preferences. It’s a fantastic option for meal prep, reheats beautifully, and tastes even better the next day. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or cooking for a crowd, this dish delivers comfort, flavor, and convenience in every bite. If you love meals that are quick, cozy, and packed with bold flavor, this One-Pot Taco Pasta is about to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Protein
  • 1 pound ground chicken or ground beef
Aromatics & Vegetables
  • 1 yellow onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
Pasta & Liquids
  • 12 oz pasta penne, rotini, or shells
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
Seasonings
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
Creamy Finish
  • 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella
  • ½ cup heavy cream
Optional Toppings
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro
  • Green onions
  • Yogurt or sour cream
  • These ingredients create a rich cheesy, taco-inspired pasta cooked entirely in one pot.

Equipment

  • Large pot or deep skillet
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • One pot is all you need for this comforting meal.

Method
 

Step 1: Brown the Protein
  1. Heat the large pot over medium heat.
Add the ground chicken or beef.
  1. Cook until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
  2. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
  1. Add diced onion and bell pepper to the pot.
  2. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  3. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Season the Base
  1. Stir in taco seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Cook for 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
Step 4: Add Pasta and Liquids
  1. Add dry pasta directly to the pot.
  2. Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes.
  3. Stir well to combine everything evenly.
Step 5: Simmer
  1. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  2. Reduce heat to medium-low.
  3. Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and liquid has thickened.
Step 6: Make It Creamy
  1. Reduce heat to low.
  2. Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheese.
  3. Mix until melted and creamy.
Step 7: Taste and Adjust
  1. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  2. Add a splash of broth if pasta becomes too thick.
Step 8: Serve
  1. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.
  2. Spoon into bowls and add toppings if desired.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Sauce thickens as it cools.
Freezer
Freeze portions for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Add a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
🥄 Variations
Spicy Taco Pasta
Add chili flakes or jalapeños.
Veggie-Loaded Version
Add corn, zucchini, or black beans.
Extra Cheesy Pasta
Add more shredded cheese.
Lighter Version
Use half cream and half broth.
Gluten-Free Option
Use gluten-free pasta and adjust liquid.
One-Pot Baked Taco Pasta
Transfer to baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I use any pasta shape?
Yes, short pasta shapes work best.
2. Does pasta cook fully in one pot?
Yes, it absorbs the broth as it cooks.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats very well.
4. Is this dish spicy?
Mild to medium — adjust seasoning to taste.
5. Can kids eat this?
Yes, it’s very kid-friendly.
6. Can I skip the cream?
Yes, but the pasta will be less creamy.
7. Can I add beans?
Yes, black or kidney beans work well.
8. Why stir occasionally?
To prevent pasta from sticking.
9. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger pot.
10. Is this a full meal?
Yes, it’s hearty and complete on its own.
🏁 Conclusion
This Taco Pasta (One Pot!) is the ultimate comfort meal — cheesy, hearty, and packed with bold taco flavor, all made with minimal effort and cleanup. By cooking everything together in one pot, you get a rich, flavorful sauce and perfectly tender pasta in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something cozy and satisfying, this dish delivers comfort, convenience, and flavor every single time.