Description
One pot taco pasta is a bold, cheesy, and satisfying one-pot dinner made with ground turkey, tender pasta, smoky spices, and fresh lime.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 white onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 pound ground turkey (or plant-based ground alternative)
2 tablespoons taco seasoning (or 1 packet)
1 teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
1 (4-ounce) can chopped green chiles (with juice)
8 ounces elbow pasta
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or dairy-free alternative)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
Salt, to taste
Optional toppings:
Chopped green onions
Dairy-free sour cream
Lime wedges
Instructions
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and bell pepper, and cook for 2 minutes until just softened. Add ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart, until no longer pink (about 3–5 minutes).
2. Stir in taco seasoning, paprika, cumin, diced tomatoes, and green chiles. Add the dry pasta and stir well to coat. Pour in the vegetable broth and mix again.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let simmer for 13–15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
4. Turn off the heat. Stir in shredded cheese until melted. Add chopped cilantro, lime juice, and hot sauce if using. Season with salt to taste. Let sit uncovered for 3–5 minutes to thicken. Serve warm with optional toppings.
Notes
Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
Substitute ground beef for a richer flavor.
Add black beans or corn for extra texture.
Reheat with a splash of broth to loosen sauce.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: One-Pot & Easy Meals
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: American-Mexican Inspired