Name: One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pound ground beef; 2 tablespoons taco seasoning; 1 cup tomato sauce; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 1/2 cups beef broth; 2 1/2 cups rotini pasta, uncooked; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

`When dinner needs to be fast, comforting, and satisfying for everyone at the table, this One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet always delivers. I love recipes that bring bold flavor with minimal cleanup, and this one checks all the boxes. It combines the best of taco night and pasta night in a single, cheesy, irresistible pan.

I often find myself reaching for this recipe on weeknights when time is short, but the craving for something hearty is real. The rich taco-seasoned beef, creamy melted cheese, and tender rotini pasta come together in under 30 minutes, making it one of my most repeated dinner ideas. Plus, my family practically fights over leftovers—if there are any!

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet

This dish is everything you want from a comforting, flavorful meal. It’s quick to make, uses pantry-friendly ingredients, and only dirties one skillet—less cleanup is always a win. The cheesy taco flavors satisfy both adults and kids alike, and it’s incredibly adaptable. Whether you’re serving it right out of the pan or topping it with sour cream and jalapeños, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best in This Recipe?

I like using rotini for this recipe because its spirals hold onto the sauce and bits of ground beef so well. But elbow macaroni, penne, or even shells will work great. Just make sure the pasta is sturdy enough to simmer in the sauce without becoming mushy. If you’re going gluten-free, choose a firm gluten-free pasta that holds up well under pressure.

Options for Substitutions

This recipe is flexible depending on what you have on hand. You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option. Swap cheddar cheese for pepper jack if you want a spicy kick. No taco seasoning? Mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika for a DIY blend. You can even stir in a can of black beans or corn for extra texture and nutrition.

Ingredients for One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet

Ground beef – The foundation of the taco flavor, rich and savory.
Rotini pasta – Its spiral shape holds onto all that cheesy, beefy sauce.
Taco seasoning – Packs in that signature smoky, spicy, and earthy taco flavor.
Tomato sauce – Adds body, acidity, and binds all the ingredients into a saucy base.
Diced tomatoes – Gives juicy texture and a pop of brightness.
Cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully into a gooey, comforting layer.
Beef broth – Helps cook the pasta directly in the skillet while infusing deep flavor.
Olive oil – Used to brown the beef and start the flavor foundation.
Onion – Adds aromatic sweetness and depth to the meat base.
Garlic – Brings bold, fragrant flavor that enhances the entire dish.
Salt and pepper – Basic but essential for seasoning throughout.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant—about 30 seconds.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it up and cook until it’s fully browned with no pink remaining. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Add Seasoning and Tomatoes

Stir in taco seasoning, then pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes. Mix well to coat the beef in the rich taco mixture.

Step 4: Add Pasta and Broth

Pour in the uncooked rotini pasta and beef broth. Stir to combine everything evenly, making sure the pasta is submerged. Bring to a boil.

Step 5: Simmer Until Pasta is Tender

Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for about 12–15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish

Once the pasta is cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top and stir until fully melted and creamy. You can reserve some cheese to sprinkle on top just before serving.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

If desired, top with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream. Serve hot straight from the skillet!

How Long to Prepare One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet

Prep Time: Most of the prep involves simple chopping and gathering ingredients, which should take around 10 minutes. Dicing onions and garlic, measuring out seasonings, and opening canned goods is all straightforward.

Cook Time: The active cooking time clocks in at about 20 minutes. This includes browning the meat, simmering the pasta in the broth and sauce, and melting the cheese at the end. The entire meal can be ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect weeknight choice.

Tips for Perfect One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet

Use freshly shredded cheese if possible—it melts smoother and creamier than pre-shredded.
Stir occasionally while simmering to ensure the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom.
Don’t overcook the pasta; keep it al dente so it maintains structure.
Add broth gradually if needed to prevent dryness.
Customize your toppings! Fresh jalapeños, sour cream, chopped scallions, or avocado all elevate this dish.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Adding the cheese too early: It can clump or burn if added before the pasta is done.
Skipping the simmer: Undercooked pasta ruins the texture. Let it simmer long enough to cook fully.
Using too much pasta: Stick to the recommended amount; otherwise, you risk drying out the dish.
Forgetting to taste as you go: Adjust salt and spice based on your preferences.
Overcrowding the skillet: Make sure your skillet is large enough to hold everything comfortably.

What to Serve With One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet?

1. Mexican Street Corn (Elote)

Creamy, tangy, and sweet corn on the cob complements the spicy cheese-laden pasta perfectly.

2. Simple Green Salad

A fresh, crisp side salad with lime vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.

3. Garlic Bread

Bold, cheesy flavors meet crispy, buttery bread—comfort food heaven.

4. Chips and Guacamole

Classic combo that pairs especially well with the Tex-Mex flavors.

5. Roasted Vegetables

A light, healthy contrast to the hearty pasta dish. Zucchini, bell peppers, or cauliflower work great.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.

Freezer: While this dish can technically be frozen, the pasta may get a bit soft upon thawing. If freezing, let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove.

Estimated Nutrition

This is an estimate per serving (based on 6 servings):

Calories: 480
Protein: 26g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 790mg

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this dish?

It has a mild-to-medium spice level, depending on your taco seasoning. You can adjust heat by using mild or hot seasoning or adding jalapeños.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the beef with plant-based ground or use black beans and corn for a delicious meatless version.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely. Monterey Jack, Colby, or Pepper Jack are great alternatives. Just ensure it’s a good melting cheese.

Can I prep this in advance?

You can cook the beef mixture ahead and refrigerate it. When ready to eat, add the pasta and broth, then finish the cooking process.

What if I don’t have taco seasoning?

Mix 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, and a pinch of oregano for a homemade version.

Conclusion

One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet is a dinner hero for busy nights. It combines the bold, comforting flavors of tacos with the heartiness of pasta, all in one pan. With easy steps, quick prep, and customizable options, this meal delivers big on taste with little hassle. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, it’s a recipe you’ll keep coming back to.