Easy One-Pot Taco Pasta Skillet: A Weeknight Wonder

If you’re on the lookout for a quick, delicious, and satisfying dinner option, look no further than the Easy One-Pot Taco Pasta Skillet! This dish is the embodiment of comfort food—creamy, flavorful, and perfect for the whole family. Imagine a colorful medley of pasta enveloped in zesty taco flavors, simmered to perfection in one simple pot. What’s not to love?

A fun fact about this recipe is that it combines the best of both worlds—traditional taco flavors with hearty pasta. This dish is not only an ultimate crowd-pleaser but also a lifesaver on those busy weeknights when time is of the essence. If you enjoy this recipe, you might also want to check out our Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole for another family-friendly dish that’s equally simple and scrumptious. So gather round, and let’s dive into this tasty taco-inspired creation that will surely have everyone at the table begging for seconds!

What is Easy One-Pot Taco Pasta Skillet?

So, what exactly is the Easy One-Pot Taco Pasta Skillet? Well, it’s like bringing two beloved meals together—tacos and pasta—into one easy-going pot! Picture this: pasta cooked in a rich, tangy sauce loaded with all your favorite taco seasonings and a comforting cheesy layer. Who wouldn’t want a dinner that sounds this good?

You might find yourself chuckling at the thought—why “Taco Pasta”? Is it a taco that dressed up as pasta for a fancy dinner? The best part is that it’s soooo simple to make! As the classic saying goes, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”—and trust me, this dish will definitely win hearts (and stomachs)! So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to whisk away to the kitchen and try this easy recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Easy One-Pot Taco Pasta Skillet

There are three key aspects to absolutely love about the Easy One-Pot Taco Pasta Skillet. First, the main highlight—it’s bursting with flavor! The savory blend of spices and the richness of cheese elevate the dish, making every bite a delightful experience.

Second, let’s talk about cost-saving benefits! Why spend more at a restaurant or rely on takeout when you can whip this up in no time? Making it at home is not only cheaper, but you can customize the ingredients to suit your pantry and preferences.

Finally, the toppings and ingredients really make this dish special. Imagine serving it topped with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, or tangy lime juice! It’s a fiesta of flavors in one bowl! If you enjoy this dish, I encourage you to check out our Easy Homemade Enchiladas for another delicious option with a similar flavor profile.

How to Make Easy One-Pot Taco Pasta Skillet

Quick Overview

Making the Easy One-Pot Taco Pasta Skillet is a breeze! This dish is incredibly straightforward; it takes about 30 minutes from start to finish! The combination of pasta, ground meat (or a vegetarian substitute), and taco seasoning creates a flavor-packed meal that satisfies and nourishes all in just one pot.

Key Ingredients for Easy One-Pot Taco Pasta Skillet

Here’s what you’ll need to gather before you start cooking:

• 1 pound of ground beef or turkey (or canned beans for a vegetarian option)
• 12 ounces of pasta (like elbow macaroni or penne)
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 ounces) of black beans, rinsed and drained
• 2 cups of beef or vegetable broth
• 1 packet of taco seasoning
• 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• ½ cup of corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• Optional toppings: sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, sour cream, lime wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground meat until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
2. Add Pasta and Liquid: Stir in the pasta, diced tomatoes (with juices), black beans, corn, and broth. Toss in the taco seasoning and mix well.
3. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente.
4. Add Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Serve: Top with your favorite toppings like avocado and cilantro, and enjoy your dish hot!

What to Serve Easy One-Pot Taco Pasta Skillet With

To enhance the flavors of the Easy One-Pot Taco Pasta Skillet, consider pairing it with a refreshing side salad or some crispy tortilla chips with guacamole. You could also serve it alongside Mexican-style corn on the cob for a delightful balance of textures and flavors. For a drink, a light fruit-infused agua fresca would perfectly complement the richness of the dish!

Top Tips for Perfecting Easy One-Pot Taco Pasta Skillet

1. Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to swap out the ground meat for your favorite protein or even go meatless with lentils or chickpeas. You can also use gluten-free pasta if needed.
2. Timing Adjustments: Keep an eye on the pasta while it simmers. Every type has a different cooking time, so adjust accordingly based on the package directions.
3. Common Mistakes to Avoid: Avoid overcrowding the pot; if necessary, make a larger batch in a bigger skillet. Also, be cautious with salt, as some broth and taco seasoning can be salty on their own.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s unlikely with how good this dish is), store any remaining Easy One-Pot Taco Pasta Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to help restore its creamy texture.

Give this Easy One-Pot Taco Pasta Skillet a try tonight and delight in the simplicity and joy it brings to your dinner table! Happy cooking!

Easy One-Pot Taco Pasta Skillet

A quick and delicious one-pot meal combining traditional taco flavors and hearty pasta, perfect for busy weeknights.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American, Mexican

Servings 4 servings

Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey (or canned beans for a vegetarian option) Choose your protein based on dietary preferences.
• 12 ounces pasta (like elbow macaroni or penne) Gluten-free pasta can be used if needed.
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained (15 ounces)
• 2 cups beef or vegetable broth Ensure it's low-sodium to control salt content.
• 1 packet taco seasoning Adjust based on spice preference.
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend) Use your preferred cheese for topping.
• 1/2 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)

Optional Toppings

• 1 unit sliced avocado
• 1 unit fresh cilantro
• 1 unit sour cream
• 1 unit lime wedges

Instructions

 

Cooking Instructions

• In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground meat until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
• Stir in the pasta, diced tomatoes (with juices), black beans, corn, and broth. Toss in the taco seasoning and mix well.
• Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente.
• Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
• Top with your favorite toppings like avocado and cilantro, and enjoy your dish hot!

Notes

For ingredient substitutions, feel free to swap the ground meat for other proteins or go meatless with lentils or chickpeas. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Keyword Comfort Food, Easy Recipe, One-Pot Meal, Quick Dinner, Taco Pasta