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–+ servings
One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet

One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet

A quick and easy One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet that's comfort in every bite, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can be substituted with vegetable or canola oil.
  • 1 small Onion, diced Shallots or green onions work as alternatives.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced Fresh is best, but jarred can suffice.
For the Protein
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Can be swapped for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based options.
  • 2 tablespoons Taco Seasoning Can be made from chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Tomato Sauce Homemade or tomato puree can be used.
  • 1 can Diced Tomatoes 14.5 oz; crushed tomatoes can be an alternative.
  • 2.5 cups Beef Broth Chicken or vegetable broth may be substituted.
For the Pasta
  • 2.5 cups Rotini Pasta, uncooked Elbow macaroni, penne, or shells may be used.
For the Creaminess
  • 2 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack provide a kick.
For Seasoning
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 small diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Add 1 pound of ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  3. Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning, then add 1 cup of tomato sauce and 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes. Stir and let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Pour in 2.5 cups of beef broth and 2.5 cups of uncooked rotini pasta. Stir gently and bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 12-15 minutes until pasta is tender and most liquid absorbed.
  6. Remove from heat, stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
  7. Serve in bowls and garnish with cilantro, sour cream, or jalapeños if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For best results, use freshly shredded cheese and avoid stirring the pasta too much to prevent sticking. You can add vegetables for extra nutrition.

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