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To make One-Pot Taco Pasta, you need a mix of tasty ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need: - Pasta: 12 oz penne or rotini - Protein: 1 lb ground turkey or beef - Vegetables: 1 medium onion (diced), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 bell pepper (diced) - Canned Goods: 1 can (15 oz) black beans (drained and rinsed), 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies - Liquids: 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth - Seasonings: 2 tablespoons taco seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste - Extras: 1 cup corn (frozen or canned), 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend), fresh cilantro (for garnish), optional toppings like sour cream and sliced jalapeños - Necessary Equipment: Large pot and cooking utensils These ingredients come together to create a warm and filling meal. You can mix and match based on what you like. If you prefer a different protein or want to add more veggies, feel free! The dish is flexible, so you can make it your own. {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Cooking vegetables and aromatics Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook them until they soften, which takes about five minutes. Next, add the minced garlic. Stir and cook for one to two minutes, letting the garlic release its scent. 2. Browning the ground meat Add the ground turkey or beef to the pot. Break the meat apart with a spoon as it cooks. Brown the meat for about six to eight minutes. Make sure to season it with salt and pepper for good flavor. 3. Incorporating seasonings Once the meat is browned, sprinkle in the taco seasoning. Stir everything well to coat the meat and veggies with the spice mix. This step is key for a tasty base. 1. Combining all ingredients in the pot Now, it’s time to add the pasta, black beans, diced tomatoes with their juices, corn, and broth into the pot. Mix everything together until well combined. 2. Adjusting heat and simmering Bring the mixture to a boil. Once it boils, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to stop the pasta from sticking. The pasta should be al dente, and most of the liquid will be absorbed. 1. Stirring in cheese After cooking, take the pot off the heat. Stir in the shredded cheese until it melts into a creamy sauce. This adds a rich flavor and texture to the dish. 2. Adjusting seasonings Taste your One-Pot Taco Pasta. If needed, adjust the seasonings with more salt or pepper. A little tweak can make a big difference in taste. - Choosing the right pasta: I like to use penne or rotini. They hold sauce well. Choose pasta that cooks in about 12 minutes for best results. - Ensuring even cooking: Stir the pasta often while it cooks. This keeps it from clumping. It also helps all ingredients blend well. - Adding more spice or customization options: Want extra heat? Add fresh jalapeños or more taco seasoning. You can also mix in some chili powder for a kick. - Alternative cheese suggestions: Cheddar cheese is great, but try pepper jack or queso fresco for different flavors. They add creaminess and a unique taste. - Strategies to prevent sticking: Stir the pasta frequently while it simmers. It helps keep it from sticking to the pot. If you notice it sticking, add a bit more broth. - Using leftover ingredients: Have extra veggies? Toss them in! Zucchini, spinach, or even mushrooms work well. They add nutrition and flavor to your dish. Pro Tips Use Whole Grain Pasta: Opt for whole grain pasta for added fiber and nutrients, making the dish healthier without compromising flavor. Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to personalize your toppings with avocado, diced tomatoes, or your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick! Make It Vegetarian: Substitute ground turkey or beef with extra beans or lentils for a delicious vegetarian version of this dish. Leftover Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth. {{image_2}} You can switch up the protein in this dish easily. Ground turkey or beef works great, but you can also try chicken. If you prefer, you can use vegetarian or plant-based meat options. Choices like lentils or chickpeas can add texture and protein. For spice lovers, you can choose your taco seasoning. Mild seasoning gives a nice flavor without too much heat. If you want more spice, pick a hot seasoning. Adding fresh jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce can kick it up a notch. To make it healthier, consider using whole grain pasta. This adds fiber and nutrients. You can also lower the sodium by using low-sodium broth and skipping extra salt. These changes make the dish both tasty and nutritious. To store your One-Pot Taco Pasta, let it cool down first. Use an airtight container for best results. Place the container in the fridge. It keeps well for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This way, you don't forget when you made it. If you want to freeze your pasta, follow these steps. Allow the dish to cool completely. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat, just thaw it in the fridge overnight. For reheating, use a pot or microwave. If using a pot, add a splash of water or broth. This keeps it moist while heating. Heat over low to medium heat, stirring often. If using a microwave, place it in a bowl and cover it. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This helps keep the texture and flavor just right. Yes, you can make One-Pot Taco Pasta in advance. Here’s how: - Prep: Cook the pasta and meat mixture as directed. - Store: Let it cool, then place it in an airtight container. - Refrigerate: Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. - Reheat: When ready to eat, warm it on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth to keep it moist. Absolutely! You can make a tasty vegetarian version. Here are some ideas: - Protein: Use black beans or lentils instead of meat. - Broth: Stick with vegetable broth for flavor. - Extras: Add more veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for texture. Want more heat? Here are some easy tips: - Seasoning: Use spicy taco seasoning instead of mild. - Jalapeños: Add fresh jalapeños or diced green chiles. - Hot Sauce: Drizzle your favorite hot sauce before serving. - Peppers: Try adding diced serrano or habanero peppers to the mix. One-Pot Taco Pasta is simple and fun to make. We covered key ingredients: pasta, protein, veggies, and spices. I shared step-by-step instructions to help you cook easily. Tips and tricks enhance flavor and ensure perfect pasta. You can adapt the recipe with various proteins and spice levels. Finally, I provided storage tips for any leftovers. With these insights, you can create a hearty meal that suits your taste. Enjoy your cooking journey and make this dish your own!

One-Pot Taco Pasta Delight

A delicious and easy one-pot meal combining the flavors of tacos and pasta.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
  • 1 lb ground turkey or beef
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper diced (any color)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish
  • Sour cream and sliced jalapeños, for serving (optional)

Instructions
 

  • In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Add the ground turkey (or beef) to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and stir everything to coat the meat and vegetables well.
  • Add the pasta, black beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), corn, and broth to the pot. Stir to combine.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  • Once cooked, remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
  • Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, and with optional toppings like sour cream and sliced jalapeños.

Notes

Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings.
Keyword easy meal, one pot, pasta, taco