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Quick Cheesy One-Pot Taco Pasta

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A comforting and speedy one-pot dish combining pasta, savory meat, and a cheesy sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey (lean preferred)
  • 8 ounces medium pasta (elbow macaroni or small shells)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 2 cups beef broth or stock
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (mild recommended)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup sour cream (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent.
  3. Incorporate minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Crumble in the ground beef or turkey, cooking until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
  5. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the meat and stir to coat evenly, allowing the spices to toast for another minute.
  6. Add the tomato sauce and beef broth, stirring to combine and bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  7. Stir in the uncooked pasta, making sure it’s submerged in the liquid. Cover with a lid and simmer for about 12-15 minutes, stirring every 4-5 minutes to avoid sticking.
  8. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, use beef broth instead of water when cooking the pasta. Add more taco seasoning or hot sauce for a spicier kick.

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