Save to Pinterest This One-Pan Taco Macaroni is my weeknight lifesaver when I need something hearty flavorful and impossibly comforting with zero fuss. Everything cooks together in a single skillet meaning more taste with fewer dishes and it checks all the boxes whenever my family’s craving something cheesy and satisfying.
I first tried this on a night with almost nothing in the fridge and now it comes up regularly for our movie-night dinners the speed and flavor is unbeatable.
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni: Because their shape soaks up sauce and cooks quickly Select a sturdy brand that does not get mushy
- Ground beef: Gives rich flavor and heartiness Use lean for less grease or ground turkey for a lighter version
- Bell peppers: Add sweetness and color Go for red and yellow or even toss in some jalapenos for heat
- Onion: Builds a savory flavor base Yellow onions melt down beautifully here
- Garlic: Adds punch and depth Fresh cloves always deliver more taste but pre-minced works in a pinch
- Canned diced tomatoes: Their acidity balances creamy cheese and gives classic taco vibes Choose no-salt-added for control
- Taco Seasoning: The star for spiced flavor Use a homemade blend or your favorite store bought packet
- Cheddar cheese: Melts into creamy goodness Freshly shredded cheese gives the best melt
- Chicken broth: Adds flavorful liquid that cooks the pasta Low-sodium lets you control saltiness
- Olive oil: Needed for sautéing and flavor Choose extra-virgin for best results
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning for bright flavors Taste as you go for best balance
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables:
- Dice your onion and bell peppers into small even pieces This helps them cook quickly and blend seamlessly into the sauce core of the dish
- Sauté the aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat Add diced onion and cook for a full five minutes stirring often until soft and sweet smelling Now toss in the chopped bell peppers and continue cooking until edges are just tender This layering builds flavor at the very start
- Brown the beef:
- Push veggies to the pan edges and add ground beef to the center Let it sear undisturbed for two to three minutes to develop a little crust Then break it up with a spoon and stir everything together Cook until beef loses its pink touch and is crumbly
- Add garlic and seasoning:
- Stir in minced garlic and taco seasoning stirring constantly for one minute until it smells deeply fragrant Letting the spices toast like this bloomed their flavors and I always notice the difference
- Mix in liquid and macaroni:
- Pour in canned tomatoes (including their juice) along with chicken broth Scrape the pan bottom to loosen any browned bits which enrich the sauce Add salt and pepper Sprinkle in the macaroni Stir until everything is evenly distributed
- Simmer the pasta:
- Bring the pot to a gentle boil then reduce to low and cover Cook for twelve to fifteen minutes stirring every few minutes to stop sticking until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed Never rush this step stirring ensures the pasta cooks evenly and the sauce thickens beautifully
- Add the cheese:
- Turn off the heat and sprinkle cheddar over the top Cover the pan so cheese melts into puddles Stir gently to distribute creamy cheese throughout Taste and add any last seasoning
- Finish and serve:
- Top with extra diced tomatoes chopped cilantro sliced green onions or a dollop of sour cream Dish it up hot Family demand seconds every time
Save to Pinterest Family demand seconds every time so this skillet is often the highlight of our busiest nights. My brother used to sneak bites straight from the pan so now it’s a tradition to gather and serve right from the stove.
Storage Tips
One-Pan Taco Macaroni stores well for up to three days refrigerated in an airtight container Just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave If it thickens up add a splash of broth or water before reheating to bring back its creamy texture Try not to freeze it with cheese already melted through for best quality instead add cheese after thawing
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap in ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version or use plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian twist Black beans or pinto beans can stand in for part of the protein Elbow macaroni is classic but small shells or rotini will also hold the cheesy sauce nicely
Serving Suggestions
I love serving this with a crisp green salad and a big squeeze of lime Sometimes add a side of tortilla chips for crunchy contrast Any taco night toppings go well so let everyone add their favorites right at the table
Cultural Inspiration
This recipe is pure weeknight comfort inspired by Tex-Mex flavors It takes all my favorite taco toppings and cradles them in cheesy pasta It is a blend of American macaroni traditions with the spiced heart of taco night
Seasonal Adaptations
In summer I toss in fresh sweet corn or diced zucchini for a burst of seasonal freshness Fall versions get pumpkin puree stirred into the sauce for extra silkiness In winter add a pinch of smoky chipotle for warmth and serve topped with sliced pickled jalapeños
Success Stories
My cousin made this with gluten-free pasta and her two picky kids finished every bite A good friend got creative and added black olives and crushed tortilla chips for crunch I love that this recipe fits any family and always leads to happy plates
Freezer Meal Conversion
To freeze cook up to the stage before adding cheese Let it cool and spoon into freezer-friendly containers Thaw overnight in the fridge then reheat gently adding cheese at the end for best melty texture
Save to Pinterest This One-Pan Taco Macaroni is a flavor-packed weeknight winner that brings all the comfort of taco night in a single skillet. Try it once and it will be a regular in your dinner rotation!
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use different pasta shapes?
Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with penne, shells, or other bite-sized pasta for similar results.
- → What protein works best?
Ground beef is classic, but ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles can be used as alternatives.
- → How spicy is this dish?
Spice level depends on the taco seasoning. Adjust with mild or hot seasoning to suit your preference.
- → Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare in advance and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
- → What toppings go well with this meal?
Popular choices include shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream, or chopped cilantro.