One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta

Imagine coming home from a hectic day only to whip up a meal that feels like a fiesta in just under half an hour. Taco Fiesta in a Pot is the answer to those busy weeknights when you crave comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility. It allows you to enjoy the classic flavors of tacos while minimizing the cleanup, making it perfect for those who want to spend less time cooking and more time enjoying their meal.

Taco Fiesta in a Pot is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave a quick and comforting meal. This one-pot recipe combines seasoned ground meat, fresh vegetables, and cheesy pasta to create a delicious dish in under 30 minutes. The vibrant taco flavors are enhanced by spices, savory chicken broth, and optional garnishes like cilantro and sour cream. Easy to customize and packed with flavor, this dish is sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy a hassle-free cooking experience without compromising on taste!

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Ingredients

1 lb (450g) ground beef or turkey

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper, diced (any color)

2 cups (480ml) chicken broth

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies

2 cups (200g) uncooked pasta shells (or elbow macaroni)

2 tsp taco seasoning

1 tsp cumin

1/2 tsp paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup (120g) shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup (120g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Sour cream (for serving, optional)

Instructions

Cook the Meat: In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.

Combine Ingredients: Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices). Add the uncooked pasta, taco seasoning, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients.

Cook the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Add Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Mix well until the cheese is fully melted and creamy.

Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot, optionally topped with a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 30 mins | Serves 4-6