Mediterranean One Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta
This one-pot cheesy taco pasta is a fusion of Mexican-inspired flavors with a Mediterranean touch. It’s hearty, cheesy, and comes together in just one pan, making cleanup easy. The ground beef, taco seasoning, salsa, pasta, and cheese all simmer together into a creamy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1/2 teaspoon salt
Pinch of black pepper
1 ounce packet taco seasoning (or about 3 1/2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
2 cups water
1 cup jarred mild salsa
8 ounces uncooked shell pasta
1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican-style cheese
Instructions
Cook the beef: In a large deep skillet or pot, add ground beef, salt, and black pepper. Cook over medium heat until the beef is browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spatula (about 5–6 minutes). Drain any excess fat if needed.
Season: Stir in the taco seasoning, coating the beef well.
Add liquids and pasta: Pour in the water and salsa, then add the uncooked shell pasta. Stir everything together, making sure pasta is submerged.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Cheese it up: Remove from heat, then stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheese on top, cover for 1–2 minutes, and let it melt.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if you like. Serve hot straight from the pot.
Tips
Don’t overcook pasta: Keep an eye on it as it simmers. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and make sure the shells cook evenly.
Adjust thickness: If the pasta absorbs too much liquid, add a splash of water or broth at the end. If it’s too runny, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
Use freshly shredded cheese: It melts smoother than pre-shredded bagged cheese, which often has anti-caking agents.
Make it ahead: You can cook the beef and seasonings in advance. Add pasta, salsa, and water when ready to finish.
Variations
Protein swap: Try ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled sausage instead of beef.
Mediterranean flair: Mix in chopped olives, roasted red peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth.
Veggie boost: Add diced zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers while cooking for more nutrition.
Cheese twist: Use a blend of mozzarella and feta for a Mediterranean-style flavor swap, or go with sharp cheddar for a stronger kick.
Spice level: Use hot salsa or add chili flakes if you prefer a spicier dish.
Grain change: Sub pasta with small orzo, whole wheat pasta, or even pearl couscous for a Mediterranean-inspired take.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
A: Yes. It reheats well, though the pasta may absorb more sauce as it sits. Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to loosen it up.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Absolutely. Replace ground beef with lentils, black beans, or chickpeas. You’ll still get protein and a hearty texture.
Q: What kind of salsa works best?
A: A mild jarred salsa is great for balance, but you can use a spicy version if you like more heat. For a Mediterranean spin, try roasted red pepper sauce in place of salsa.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes. Store cooled pasta in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water.
Nutrition Facts
(per serving, based on 6 servings)
Calories: ~380
Protein: 24g
Fat: 17g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 4g
Sodium: 780mg
(Values will vary depending on brands and exact portions.)
Conclusion
Mediterranean One Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta is a quick, satisfying, and family-friendly dish that combines the bold flavors of taco seasoning with the comfort of creamy pasta. It’s versatile enough to adapt with different proteins, veggies, or cheeses, and the one-pot method makes cleanup simple. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add a Mediterranean twist, this pasta is a guaranteed weeknight favorite.