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One Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta

One Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta for a Cozy Family Dinner Delight

One Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta combines mac and cheese with taco flavors for a comforting weeknight meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz shell pasta gluten-free pasta can replace it
For the Protein
  • 1 lb ground beef consider lean ground beef for less fat
For the Taco Flavor
  • 1 tsp ground cumin adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp dried minced onion can substitute with fresh onions if preferred
  • 1 tsp garlic powder fresh garlic can be used, adjusting quantities
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste can substitute with enchilada sauce for a different flavor
  • 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies Rotel brand preferred for authenticity
For the Sauce
  • 2 cups beef broth ensure gluten-free options if necessary
  • 1 cup whole milk can substitute with a dairy-free milk alternative if needed
For the Cheese
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese substitute with any cheese that melts well
  • 1 cup mild cheddar cheese any yellow cheese can be used as a substitute
Additional Ingredients
  • 1 cup water used to adjust liquid balance for cooking pasta

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until no pink remains and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in ground cumin, dried minced onion, and garlic powder during the last minute of cooking.
  2. Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat and return the pot to heat. Stir in tomato paste, diced tomatoes with green chilies, beef broth, and whole milk. Mix together and bring to a gentle boil, allowing flavors to meld for about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add shell pasta to the boiling mixture, stirring well to ensure it is fully submerged. Reduce heat to medium-low and cover the pot, simmering for 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally.
  4. Once the pasta is cooked, lower heat and stir in remaining milk, Monterey Jack cheese, and mild cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts completely and creates a creamy sauce, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Serve the One Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta warm, spooning generous portions into bowls. Optionally, garnish with taco toppings like diced avocado, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Shred your own cheese for the best melt and flavor. Avoid overcrowding the pot for even mixing.

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