Looking for a quick, tasty meal that won’t create a mountain of dirty dishes? One-Pan Cheesy Taco Pasta is here to save the day! With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a comforting dish that’s loaded with flavor. Whether you’re in a hurry or feeding the family, this easy recipe will become a favorite. Read on to discover how to make this simple and satisfying meal!
Ingredients
To make One-Pan Cheesy Taco Pasta, you need simple and fresh items. Here’s the list of ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef (or your favorite plant-based substitute)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, diced (choose any color for vibrant presentation)
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
– 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini work best for this dish)
– 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (drained)
– 1 cup corn kernels (canned or frozen)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
These ingredients work together to create a dish full of flavor. The ground beef adds protein, while the veggies bring freshness. Taco seasoning gives it that classic taco taste, and the cheese makes it creamy. You can easily swap the beef with a plant-based option for a lighter meal. Each ingredient plays a role in making this dish simple yet delicious.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation and Cooking Steps
1. Sauté vegetables and cook meat
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes until they soften and smell great. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it gets fragrant. Now, toss in the ground beef or plant-based substitute. Break it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook this for 5-7 minutes until it turns brown.
2. Adding seasonings and broth
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the meat. Stir well to make sure it coats the meat evenly. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mix to a gentle simmer. This step adds a depth of flavor that makes the dish so tasty.
3. Cooking the pasta and combining ingredients
Once the broth is bubbling, add the pasta, drained diced tomatoes, and corn. Stir everything together to combine well. Cover the skillet with a lid. Let it cook for about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Check if the pasta is tender and has soaked up most of the liquid.
4. Final touches and serving recommendations
After the pasta cooks, turn the heat to low. Gently fold in the softened cream cheese. Stir until it blends in smoothly. Next, add the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until it melts and the dish becomes creamy. Taste your creation and add salt and pepper as needed. Remove the skillet from the heat. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken up. Serve the cheesy taco pasta in bowls. Top each bowl with freshly chopped cilantro and extra cheese. A lime wedge on the side adds a nice zing.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pasta
– How to avoid overcooking pasta
To keep your pasta firm, follow the package instructions for cooking time. Check it a minute or two early. It should be al dente, which means it has a slight bite. Then, drain it right away to stop the cooking process.
– Achieving a creamy consistency with cheese
Start with cream cheese and let it soften. Mix it in when the heat is low. Add shredded cheddar after that. Stir until it melts. This gives your pasta a rich, creamy texture.
– Flavor enhancements with spices or additional ingredients
You can spice things up! Add chili powder or cumin for more kick. For extra veggies, toss in spinach or zucchini. You can also use black beans for protein. These simple swaps make your dish even better!
