Taco pasta is a rich and comforting fusion dish that brings together the best of Mexican and Italian flavors in a single, satisfying meal. Imagine all the bold, spiced flavors of a classic taco—seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, and a hint of spice—combined with the creamy, cheesy goodness of a pasta dish. The result? A one-pot meal that’s both indulgent and easy to prepare.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick but still crave a meal packed with flavor. It’s a crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will love, making it a great go-to recipe for family dinners.
Taco pasta is also incredibly versatile. You can make it spicier, swap in different proteins, or adjust the recipe to accommodate dietary needs, like gluten-free or dairy-free versions. 
Table of Contents
Why You Should Make Creamy Taco Pasta
There are plenty of reasons to add this taco pasta to your meal rotation:
One-Pot Convenience
This dish is made entirely in one pot, which means fewer dishes to wash and a super easy cleanup. It is super easy to throw together especially after a busy day at work!
Quick & Easy
You can have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those nights when you don’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen.
Family-Friendly
Even picky eaters love this dish! The combination of creamy cheese and taco seasoning makes it an instant favorite with kids and adults alike.
Customizable
There are endless ways to tweak this recipe to fit your preferences—swap out the protein, make it vegetarian, or add extra spice.
Budget-Friendly
Made with simple, affordable pantry staples, this dish is an inexpensive way to serve a delicious, filling meal.
Ingredients You Need For Creamy Taco Pasta
Base Recipe
Here’s everything you’ll need to make the perfect creamy taco pasta:
Protein & Base Flavors
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
- ½ cup (120g) diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning (or homemade blend*)
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
Pasta & Liquids
- 2 cups (200g) uncooked pasta (penne, shells, or rotini work best)
- 2 ½ cups (590ml) beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
Creamy & Cheesy Ingredients
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (100g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sour cream
- Diced avocado
- Sliced jalapeños
Homemade Taco Seasoning (if you don’t have a packet)
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra spice)
Step-by-Step Method
- Cook the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook for about 2 minutes until softened. Add ground beef and break it apart with a spatula, cooking until browned and fully cooked (about 5–7 minutes). Drain excess grease if necessary. - Season the Meat
Stir in the minced garlic and taco seasoning. Cook for another 30 seconds to allow the flavors to bloom. - Add Broth & Tomatoes
Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes (including the liquid from the can). Stir to combine. - Add Pasta & Simmer
Stir in the uncooked pasta, making sure it is submerged in the liquid. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender. - Make It Creamy
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and both cheeses. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Let it simmer for another 2 minutes. - Serve & Garnish
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, avocado, or extra cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!
Variations and Customizations
Gluten-Free Taco Pasta
This dish is easy to make gluten-free with a few adjustments.
Ingredients:
- Use 2 cups (200g) gluten-free pasta (such as chickpea, rice, or quinoa pasta)
- Make sure your taco seasoning and broth are gluten-free
Method:
- Follow the original steps, but reduce the simmering time slightly since gluten-free pasta tends to cook faster and can become mushy.
Vegan Taco Pasta
A delicious plant-based alternative that still packs in bold flavors.
Ingredients:
- Replace ground beef with 1 ½ cups (200g) cooked lentils or crumbled tofu
- Use dairy-free cheese and coconut milk instead of heavy cream
- Substitute vegetable broth for beef broth
Method:
- Cook lentils or tofu separately, then add them after sautéing the onions.
- Follow the rest of the recipe as usual, using dairy-free cheese and coconut milk to create a creamy texture.
Spicy Chipotle Taco Pasta
For those who love extra heat and smokiness.
Ingredients:
- Add 1 chopped chipotle pepper in adobo sauce
- Use Pepper Jack cheese instead of Monterey Jack
- Increase chili powder to 1 tsp
Method:
- Mix the chipotle pepper in with the diced tomatoes and broth for an extra smoky, spicy kick.
Tips for Success
- Use freshly shredded cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents, which can make the sauce grainy.
- Stir the pasta occasionally – This prevents it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Don’t overcook the pasta – It will continue to absorb liquid even after cooking.
- Adjust the seasoning – Add extra chili powder or cumin for more depth of flavor.
- For a thicker sauce, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese or reduce the broth slightly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Penne, shells, and rotini work best since they hold onto the sauce well. Avoid long pastas like spaghetti.
How do I store leftovers?
Let the pasta cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze taco pasta?
Yes! Allow it to cool, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove with a splash of broth.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Brown the beef using the sauté function, then add the broth, tomatoes, and pasta. Pressure cook on high for 4 minutes, do a quick release, then stir in the cheese and cream.
Creamy taco pasta is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It’s quick, easy, customizable, and packed with bold, cheesy flavors that will satisfy the whole family. With simple ingredients and one-pot convenience, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home.
