Ground Beef Taco Pasta Skillet

Name: Ground Beef Taco Pasta Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 8 oz elbow macaroni; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 packet taco seasoning; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup shredded cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional toppings: sour cream, diced tomatoes, green onions, jalapeños

Highlighted under: Family Comfort Food Favorites

I love making Ground Beef Taco Pasta Skillet for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation. The combination of perfectly seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and zesty taco seasoning creates a one-pot meal that's satisfying and quick. We enjoy it for busy weeknights or when we want something hearty yet comforting. Plus, the ability to customize toppings makes it a hit among family and friends, turning a simple dish into a complete fiesta on our dinner table.

Created by

Beatrice Holloway

Last updated on 2026-02-27T15:37:36.444Z

When I first tried making a one-pot taco pasta, I knew I had stumbled upon a winner. The combination of ground beef and pasta soaked in rich, taco-flavored sauce was nothing short of a revelation. I love how quick it comes together; everything simmers in one skillet, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy with my family.

One tip I’ve discovered is to let the pasta sit in the skillet for a few extra minutes after adding the cheese, allowing it to melt beautifully into the dish. This creates a creamy texture that perfectly complements the spices. It's a small detail but makes a big difference in flavor!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying meal perfect for any weeknight
One-pot dish for easy cleanup and maximum flavor
Customize with your favorite taco toppings for a personal touch

Perfecting the Taco Flavor

The taco seasoning is crucial in infusing the ground beef with vibrant flavors. When you add the seasoning, make sure to stir it in thoroughly for even distribution. This ensures that every bite is packed with taste. For a twist, you can mix in additional spices, like smoked paprika or chili powder, to enhance the smokiness and heat, depending on your preferences. Remember, the quality and freshness of your taco seasoning can make a significant difference in the overall flavor profile.

Don’t be afraid to taste as you go! After stirring in the taco seasoning, give the mixture a little taste test. Adjusting the seasoning can elevate the dish before you've even gotten to the broth or pasta. If you find it too salty, a splash of lime juice can balance the flavors nicely, while also enhancing that authentic taco flavor.

Cooking Pasta to Perfection

Cooking the elbow macaroni directly in the skillet with the beef broth not only saves on dishes but also enhances the pasta's flavor. This technique allows the pasta to absorb the rich beefy broth as it cooks, ensuring that it doesn't taste bland. Monitor the pasta closely and stir occasionally; this prevents it from sticking together or to the bottom of the skillet, which can lead to uneven cooking.

If you want to reduce cooking time, consider using smaller pasta shapes, like shells or even penne. These cook faster, typically within 7–9 minutes, compared to the 10 minutes needed for elbow macaroni. Just keep an eye on the texture. You want them al dente, as they will continue to soften slightly after being mixed with cheese and served.

Topping Ideas and Storage Tips

The beauty of the Ground Beef Taco Pasta Skillet lies in its versatility. You can customize your dish with a variety of toppings to match everyone's preferences. Classic options such as sour cream and diced tomatoes bring freshness, while jalapeños offer a spicy kick. Experiment with unique toppings like avocado slices or crushed tortilla chips for an added crunch and flavor twist.

If you have leftovers, store the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to restore moisture, as the pasta can absorb the liquid as it sits. Alternatively, freeze individual portions for a quick future meal; just ensure they are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to ensure a smooth preparation.

For the Taco Pasta Skillet

1 lb ground beef
8 oz elbow macaroni
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet taco seasoning
2 cups beef broth
1 cup shredded cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: sour cream, diced tomatoes, green onions, jalapeños

Once everything is prepared, you're ready to cook up this delicious dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a quick and easy dinner!

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat.

Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion is soft, about 3 minutes.

Add Seasoning and Broth

Stir in the taco seasoning, then pour in the beef broth. Bring to a simmer.

Add Pasta

Stir in the elbow macaroni and cook uncovered for 10 minutes until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.

Finish with Cheese

Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Top with your favorite toppings and serve hot.

This delightful meal is ready to impress!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or corn, to the skillet for added nutrition and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to swap out ground beef for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well in this recipe. These alternatives can still deliver great taste while reducing calorie counts. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning levels, as leaner meats can absorb spices differently compared to beef.

For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat crumbles or a combination of black beans and lentils. You'll need to modify the cooking times slightly, allowing the beans to heat through rather than browning like the beef. Just make sure to add enough flavorings to compensate since plant-based proteins often need that extra seasoning boost.

Serving Suggestions

This dish can serve as a standalone meal, but you can elevate it by serving it alongside a fresh green salad or tortilla chips with salsa. For an extra layer of flavor, consider a side of guacamole or a tangy lime vinaigrette to drizzle over the salad.

For a festive family gathering, turn this meal into a taco bar. Set out toppings in separate bowls, encouraging everyone to create their own personalized plate. Not only does this make for a fun dining experience, but it also allows guests to customize their meal according to their tastes and dietary restrictions.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that the pasta has absorbed too much liquid and seems dry, don’t worry! You can easily salvage it by stirring in a little extra beef broth or water. Adding in just a couple of tablespoons at a time while stirring should bring the dish back to the desired creamy consistency without overcooking.

Another common issue is the cheese not melting properly. If you encounter chunky bits, it's likely that the skillet was too hot when the cheese was added. To fix this, lower the heat and stir the cheese in slowly, allowing it to melt evenly. Grated cheese will melt more readily, so opt for that over blocks for easier incorporation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative, and use vegetable broth.

→ Can I prep this in advance?

You can cook the beef and prepare the toppings ahead of time, then just combine and heat when ready to serve.

→ What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, then reheat on the stove or microwave.