One-Pot Pasta

One-Pot Taco Pasta

Introduction

One-Pot Taco Pasta is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe combines the rich flavors of a taco with the comfort of pasta, all cooked in one pot for easy cleanup. Whether you’re using lean ground beef or a plant-based alternative like Impossible Meat, this dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 white onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 pound lean ground beef (or 12 ounces if using Impossible Meat)
• 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning or 1 (1-ounce) packet taco seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (4-ounce) can chopped green chilis
• 8 ounces elbow pasta
• 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
• Salt, as needed

Optional Toppings:

• Green onions, chopped
• Sour cream
• Lime wedges

Directions

1. Sauté the Vegetables and Ground Beef

Set a large pot (5 or 6 quarts) on the stove over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil. Once shimmering, add the chopped onion and bell pepper and cook until just softened, about 2 minutes. Add the ground beef and use a wooden spoon to break it up in the pan. Reduce the heat to medium and cook until most of the pink is gone, 3 to 5 minutes. If desired, spoon off some of the grease. For plant-based meat, this will only take 2 to 3 minutes.

2. Add the Seasoning, Tomatoes, Pasta, and Broth

Add the taco seasoning, paprika, cumin, canned tomatoes, and green chilis, both undrained. Mix until combined. Add the dry pasta and stir to coat. Pour in the beef broth and mix everything once more. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil (this takes 3 to 5 minutes).

3. Simmer the Pasta

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and simmer until the pasta is cooked, 13 to 15 minutes. Stir a few times while simmering to ensure the pasta cooks evenly.

4. Mix in the Cheese, Cilantro, and Lime

Turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts. Mix in chopped cilantro, lime juice, and hot sauce (if using). Taste and add salt as needed. Let it sit for 3 to 5 minutes to thicken before serving topped with scallions, sour cream, and lime, if desired.

Nutrition Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Calories: Approx. 400 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4

Conclusion

This One-Pot Taco Pasta is a quick and flavorful meal that combines the best of taco night and pasta night. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s a convenient option for any day of the week. Enjoy it with your favorite toppings and savor the delicious blend of spices and fresh ingredients.

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