One Pot Taco Pasta
To make One Pot Taco Pasta, cook the pasta, build a sauce around ground beef, salsa, and cheddar, and finish everything together in one skillet while the noodles can still absorb flavor. It works because the sauce actually coats the pasta instead of pooling around it like a witness.
This one-pot taco pasta browns ground beef, builds a sauce with salsa and cheddar, and cooks the pasta right in the same pot. One pot, one pot to wash, real taco flavor.
It's a fast weeknight meal that saves on dishes as much as time. Brown your beef well, and let the pasta cook right in the sauce.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup cheddar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup broth, cream, or sauce base
- Salt and black pepper
Instructions
- 1Cook the pasta in salted water and reserve a little of the starchy water before draining.
- 2Cook the ground beef in a large skillet until browned or just done, then add the garlic.
- 3Stir in the salsa and cheddar with the sauce base and let it simmer briefly.
- 4Add the pasta and toss until glossy, using the reserved pasta water if it needs loosening.
- 5Taste and finish with extra cheese, herbs, or lemon if the recipe style wants it.
Pro Tips
- Save the pasta water. It fixes more than people admit.
- Do not overcook the protein before the sauce goes in.
- Finish the pasta in the sauce for better flavor and a tighter texture.
Substitutions
Storage Instructions
Store refrigerated for up to 4 days and reheat with a splash of broth or milk.
Make Ahead
Cook the protein and sauce base ahead, then boil the pasta fresh if you can.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make One Pot Taco Pasta ahead of time?
Yes. Cook the protein and sauce base ahead, then boil the pasta fresh if you can.
How do I store leftover One Pot Taco Pasta?
Store refrigerated for up to 4 days and reheat with a splash of broth or milk.
Can I freeze One Pot Taco Pasta?
Usually yes. Cool it completely, pack it well, and freeze for up to 2 months if the texture of the dish supports it.
What should I serve with One Pot Taco Pasta?
Serve One Pot Taco Pasta with something that gives it contrast, like a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, rice, or bread depending on the style.