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One Pot Creamy Taco Beef Pasta

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This One Pot Creamy Taco Beef Pasta is a quick, hearty, and flavorful family dinner that combines the bold flavors of taco night with creamy, cheesy pasta—all made in a single pot for easy cleanup. Packed with protein and adaptable for various diets, it’s a comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound lean ground beef (90% lean preferred)
  • 8 ounces dry pasta (rotini, penne, shells, or elbows)
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 packet (about 2 tablespoons) taco seasoning
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (fire-roasted or regular)
  • 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed and softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Optional: 1/2 cup milk or half-and-half
  • Optional: 1/2 cup frozen corn or black beans, rinsed and drained
  • Optional: Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional: Sliced green onions, diced avocado, or sour cream (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Heat a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and diced onion. Cook, breaking up the beef, until browned and onion is soft (5-7 minutes). Drain excess grease if needed.
  2. Stir in minced garlic and taco seasoning. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add diced tomatoes (with juices) and beef broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  4. Add dry pasta and stir to submerge noodles. Bring to a gentle boil over high heat.
  5. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring every couple of minutes. Add more broth or water if needed. Cook until pasta is just al dente.
  6. Turn heat to low. Stir in cream cheese until melted and smooth. Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until gooey and combined. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or broth.
  7. Optional: Stir in corn or black beans and heat through. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  8. Serve hot, topped with cilantro, green onions, avocado, or sour cream as desired.

Notes

For gluten-free, use GF pasta and check taco seasoning. For dairy-free, use plant-based cream cheese and cheese. Stir pasta frequently to prevent sticking. Adjust liquid as needed for desired sauce consistency. Add extra veggies or swap proteins as desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: one pot, taco pasta, creamy beef pasta, family dinner, easy weeknight meal, comfort food, skillet dinner, taco night, cheesy pasta, protein-packed

Find it online: https://blairrecipes.com/one-pot-creamy-taco-beef-pasta-recipe-easy-family-dinner/