Instant Pot Taco Pasta | JustWorthi

A One-Pot Comfort Meal in Under 30 Minutes

If you’re craving a quick, cheesy, and flavorful meal that brings together the best of tacos and pasta, this Instant Pot Taco Pasta is for you! With a total cook time of under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights and guarantees a satisfying dinner the whole family will love.

A Fun Fusion of Two Favorites

Growing up, taco night and pasta night were both huge in our house. One day, I thought—why not combine the two? Enter Taco Pasta: a creamy, cheesy dish with all the bold flavors of tacos, made effortlessly in the Instant Pot. This dish has since become a go-to in my kitchen, offering a fun twist on classic comfort food.

This version includes seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich, cheesy taco-flavored sauce. Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

Ingredient Notes

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

• Ground beef (or turkey) – The base of the dish, providing hearty protein and taco flavor.
• Pasta (rotini, penne, or shells) – Soaks up the flavorful sauce and gives the dish its structure.
• Taco seasoning – The secret to bold, Tex-Mex flavor.
• Diced tomatoes with green chilies – Adds tang, spice, and a slightly smoky depth.
• Beef or chicken broth – Enhances flavor while helping the pasta cook perfectly.
• Cheddar cheese – Melts into the pasta for a creamy, cheesy finish.
• Sour cream – Adds a touch of creaminess and balances the spices.

Substitutions and Alternatives

• For a leaner option: Use ground turkey instead of beef.
• For a spicier kick: Add extra chili powder or a dash of hot sauce.
• For a vegetarian version: Swap the meat for black beans or lentils.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Meat

Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Add a little oil and cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.

2. Add Seasonings and Liquids

Stir in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and broth. Mix well to combine.

3. Add Pasta and Cook

Pour in the pasta but do not stir—just press it down slightly into the liquid. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 4 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then do a quick release.

4. Stir in Cheese and Sour Cream

Open the lid and stir in shredded cheddar and sour cream until melted and creamy.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with chopped cilantro, jalapeños, or crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch!

Expert Tips for the Best Results

• Don’t stir the pasta before cooking: This prevents it from sticking to the bottom.
• Use freshly grated cheese: It melts better than pre-shredded varieties.
• Adjust liquid as needed: If the pasta looks dry after cooking, add a splash of broth before stirring in cheese.

Serving Suggestions

• Top with avocado slices, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of guacamole.
• Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
• Pair with a margarita or a refreshing iced tea for the perfect meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Best Reheating Methods

• Stovetop: Reheat over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to keep it creamy.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes! Just adjust the cook time based on the pasta’s package instructions (halved for Instant Pot cooking).

Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and swap sour cream for coconut cream or a dairy-free yogurt.

What if my pasta is too watery after cooking?

Let it sit for a few minutes—the starches will thicken the sauce. If needed, sauté for 1-2 minutes to reduce excess liquid.

Final Thoughts

Instant Pot Taco Pasta is the perfect combination of comfort food and bold taco flavors. Whether you make it mild for the kids or spice it up for taco lovers, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. Give it a try and let me know your favorite toppings in the comments!

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