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One Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta

One Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta: Quick Comfort for Busy Nights

One Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish perfect for busy nights, combining pasta with spiced ground beef and melted cheese.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Dish
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Feel free to swap for ground turkey or plant-based meat.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Consider using smoked paprika for a subtle alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Minced Onion Fresh onions can be used, adjust cooking time.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic works well; about 1-2 cloves.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Marinara sauce is an easy substitute.
  • 1 can Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies Rotel brand is a favorite.
  • 2 cups Beef Broth Opt for gluten-free broth if required.
  • 1 cup Whole Milk Plant-based milk can be used.
  • 1 cup Water Leave it out for a thicker result.
  • 8 ounces Shell Pasta Gluten-free pasta works, adjust cooking time.
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese Gouda cheese can substitute.
  • 1 cup Mild Cheddar Cheese Sharp cheddar can elevate flavor.
Optional Toppings
  • 1 cup Sour Cream Greek yogurt can be a lighter substitute.
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Cilantro Green onions work great if not a fan.
  • Sliced Jalapeños Omit for a milder dish.
  • 1 cup Crushed Tortilla Chips Baked chips can be a healthier alternative.

Equipment

  • large pot

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. In a large pot over medium heat, add 1 pound of ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir in 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of dried minced onion, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes, ensuring to drain any excess fat.
  2. Once the beef is cooked, add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, 2 cups of beef broth, and 1 cup of whole milk to the pot. Stir well to combine and bring to a gentle boil.
  3. Add 8 ounces of uncooked shell pasta to the boiling sauce, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Lower the heat further and add 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese and 1 cup of shredded mild cheddar cheese to the pasta. Stir gently until the cheese melts completely and the mixture becomes creamy.
  5. Serve your One Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta warm, garnished with your favorite taco toppings.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Using fresh cheese results in a smoother melt. Adjust cooking time based on preference for pasta texture. Add sautéed vegetables for added nutrition and flavor.

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