One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet

Tired of washing a pile of dishes after dinner? This One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet is here to save the night. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of bold taco flavor — all made in just one pan.

This easy skillet dinner is a hit with both kids and adults. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family meals, or anytime you want comfort food with a Tex-Mex twist. Best of all, it’s ready fast and uses simple pantry ingredients.

Let’s walk through how to make this cheesy taco pasta turn out perfect every time.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet

• One pot means less cleanup and more flavor
• Ready in about 30 minutes — great for busy nights
• Kid-friendly and picky-eater approved
• Easy to customize with your favorite toppings or proteins
• Budget-friendly and made with simple ingredients

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this comforting cheesy taco pasta skillet, gather these ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey or chicken)
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
• 2 cups pasta (elbow macaroni, rotini, or shells)
• 1 can diced tomatoes or Rotel (do not drain)
• 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 to 1½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend

Optional Add-Ins

• 1 cup canned corn
• 1 cup black beans
• 1 diced bell pepper
• Sliced jalapeños for extra heat

Step-by-Step Instructions

This one-pot taco pasta comes together quickly and easily.

1. Brown the Meat

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned. Drain extra grease if needed.

2. Season

Stir in the taco seasoning and mix well so the meat is evenly coated.

3. Add Pasta and Liquid

Add the uncooked pasta, diced tomatoes with their juices, and broth. Stir everything together.

4. Simmer

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes. Stir now and then until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

5. Make It Cheesy

Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.

6. Garnish and Serve

Let the skillet rest for about 5 minutes so it thickens. Top with sour cream, fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or your favorite taco toppings.

Tips for the Best Taco Pasta Skillet

• Cook the pasta just until tender to avoid a mushy texture
• Freshly shredded cheese melts smoother than pre-shredded cheese
• Let the skillet rest before serving to help it thicken
• Taste and adjust seasoning after simmering
• For extra creaminess, stir in a little cream cheese or sour cream at the end

Easy Variations to Try

You can change this cheesy taco pasta skillet to fit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños, cayenne, or hot sauce
• Veggie Boost: Stir in zucchini, spinach, or chopped tomatoes
• Protein Swap: Use shredded chicken, ground turkey, or plant-based crumbles
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and check the seasoning label

What to Serve With Cheesy Taco Pasta

This dish works great on its own, but these sides pair well with it:

• Fresh green salad with lime dressing
• Warm garlic bread or cheesy quesadillas
• Guacamole with tortilla chips
• Steamed or roasted vegetables

FAQs