Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta (One-Pot, Family Favorite)

When busy weeknights call for something quick, comforting, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table, Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta (One-Pot, Family Favorite) is the answer. This dish brings together everything we love about classic taco night—savory ground beef, warm spices, tomatoes with a hint of heat, and melty cheese—combined with tender pasta cooked right in the same pot for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup.

This recipe is more than just another pasta dinner. It’s a true one-pot meal, meaning fewer dishes, less stress, and more time enjoying dinner with your family. Ready in about 25 minutes, it’s ideal for busy parents, students, or anyone craving a cozy, hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

With bold taco seasoning, creamy cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked shell pasta, this Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta (One-Pot, Family Favorite) has quickly become a repeat recipe in many households—and once you try it, you’ll understand why.

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Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta

There are countless pasta recipes out there, but this one stands out for a few key reasons:

1. One Pot = Easy Cleanup

Everything—from browning the beef to cooking the pasta and melting the cheese—happens in a single pot or Dutch oven. That means fewer dishes, faster cleanup, and a smoother cooking experience.

2. Bold Taco Flavor Without the Fuss

Instead of complicated spice blends or packets, this recipe uses simple pantry spices like cumin, garlic powder, and dried onion to deliver classic taco flavor.

3. Creamy, Cheesy, and Comforting

A blend of Monterey Jack and mild cheddar creates a rich, velvety sauce that coats every bite of pasta and beef.

4. Family-Friendly and Customizable

Mild enough for kids but easy to spice up for adults, this dish adapts effortlessly to different tastes and dietary needs.

5. Perfect for Busy Weeknights

From start to finish, dinner is on the table in about 25 minutes, making it ideal for last-minute meals.

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What Is Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta?

Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta (One-Pot, Family Favorite) is a fusion-style comfort food that blends the flavors of American taco night with creamy pasta. Think taco-seasoned ground beef simmered in a tomato-infused sauce, cooked together with pasta, and finished with plenty of melted cheese.

Unlike baked casseroles or multi-step pasta dishes, this version is cooked entirely on the stovetop. The pasta absorbs the flavorful liquid as it cooks, resulting in a deeply seasoned, cohesive dish where every bite tastes rich and satisfying.

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Recipe Details

• Course: Main Course

• Cuisine: American, Mexican-Inspired

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

• Servings: 4

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Ingredients for Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta (One-Pot, Family Favorite)

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 2 teaspoons ground cumin

• 1½ teaspoons dried minced onion

• 1½ teaspoons garlic powder

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• ½ cup diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel recommended)

• 1 cup beef broth

• 1½ cups whole milk, divided

• 1 cup water

• 8 oz shell pasta

Cheese Blend

• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

• 1 cup mild cheddar cheese, shredded

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Ingredient Breakdown and Why They Matter

Ground Beef

Ground beef provides the savory backbone of this dish. Using an 80/20 blend gives you great flavor while still allowing excess fat to be drained for a balanced sauce.

Taco-Style Seasonings

Cumin, garlic powder, and dried onion create a warm, savory base without overpowering the dish. These spices mimic classic taco seasoning while keeping the ingredient list simple.

Tomato Paste + Rotel

Tomato paste adds richness and depth, while diced tomatoes with green chilies bring brightness and a subtle kick that defines taco flavor.

Milk and Broth

This combination creates a creamy sauce while still allowing the pasta to cook properly. Adding some milk at the end ensures a smooth, luscious texture.

Shell Pasta

Shells are ideal because they trap the cheesy sauce and bits of beef, delivering maximum flavor in every bite.

Cheese

Monterey Jack melts beautifully, while cheddar adds sharpness. Together, they create the ultimate creamy, cheesy finish.

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How to Make Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta (One-Pot, Family Favorite)

Step 1: Cook the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add the ground beef, cumin, dried onion, and garlic powder. Cook, breaking up the meat, until fully browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

Stir in the tomato paste, diced tomatoes with green chilies, beef broth, and 1 cup of the milk. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Add the shell pasta and water. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Reduce heat to low. Stir in Monterey Jack cheese, cheddar cheese, and the remaining ½ cup milk. Mix until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 5: Serve

Remove from heat and serve warm. Garnish if desired and enjoy immediately.

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Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta

• Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting.

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Stir occasionally and check early to avoid mushy noodles.

• Save milk for the end: This keeps the sauce creamy and prevents clumping.

• No extra salt needed: Beef broth and cheese already add plenty of seasoning.

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Easy Variations and Add-Ins

Make It Spicy

Use hot Rotel, add chili powder, cayenne, or diced jalapeños.

Add Veggies

Bell peppers, corn, black beans, or zucchini all work well.

Swap the Protein

Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter version.

Make It Extra Cheesy

Add an extra ½ cup of cheese or stir in cream cheese for ultra-creamy results.

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Serving Suggestions

This Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta (One-Pot, Family Favorite) is satisfying on its own, but it pairs beautifully with:

• A simple green salad

• Garlic bread or dinner rolls

• Steamed vegetables

• Tortilla chips for scooping

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Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Freezing

While best fresh, this dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat slowly with added milk.

Print

Nutrition Information (Approximate, Per Serving)

• Calories: 797 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 51 g

• Protein: 45 g

• Fat: 45 g

• Saturated Fat: 21 g

• Cholesterol: 145 mg

• Sodium: 763 mg

• Fiber: 3 g

• Sugar: 8 g

• Calcium: 583 mg

• Iron: 5 mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes. Rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni all work well, though cooking times may vary slightly.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely—just substitute gluten-free pasta and monitor liquid levels closely.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes. Use mild Rotel and keep spices gentle for younger palates.

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Why This Recipe Is a Family Favorite

The reason Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta (One-Pot, Family Favorite) earns its name is simple: it checks every box. It’s quick, filling, affordable, and loaded with comforting flavors everyone recognizes and loves. Whether you’re feeding picky kids or hungry adults, this dish delivers consistency and satisfaction every time.

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Final Thoughts

Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta (One-Pot, Family Favorite) is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution—comforting, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. With minimal prep, simple ingredients, and just one pot, it’s perfect for busy families who still want a homemade meal that feels special.

If you love taco flavors, creamy pasta, and stress-free cooking, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation. Make it once, and it’s guaranteed to become a repeat favorite in your home—just like it has in so many others.