Make Taco Night Magic: Instant Pot Taco Pasta Recipe

My weeknight cooking transformed with this magical Instant Pot taco pasta that combines two favorite comfort meals into one incredible dish.

Spicy seasoned ground beef melts perfectly into tender pasta shells.

Zesty Mexican flavors burst through every single bite, creating a meal that feels both familiar and exciting.

Cheese cascades over the top, creating a creamy texture that makes everyone at the table smile.

Quick preparation means you can have dinner ready in under thirty minutes.

Minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction make this recipe a total winner for busy households.

Each forkful promises a delightful adventure your taste buds will absolutely adore.

Instant Pot Taco Pasta Is a Busy Night’s Best Friend

Quick Comfort Meal: Whip up a satisfying dinner in under 20 minutes that combines the zesty flavors of tacos with creamy pasta.

No-Fuss Cooking: Instant Pot does all the hard work, requiring minimal effort and just one pot for complete meal preparation.

Family Crowd-Pleaser: Kid-friendly recipe that merges two favorite foods – tacos and pasta – guaranteeing clean plates and happy faces.

Time-Saving Magic: Transform ground beef, pasta, and simple pantry ingredients into a delicious meal faster than takeout, with zero complicated techniques.

Instant Pot Taco Pasta Ingredient List

• Ground Beef: Protein base of the dish, rich in flavor and texture. Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option.
• Pasta: Hearty base that absorbs the flavors of the dish. Short pasta like rotini or shells works best.

• Taco Seasoning: Adds classic Mexican-inspired flavor profile. Homemade or store-bought works well.
• Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: Provides moisture and slight heat to the pasta. Rotel brand is a popular choice.
• Beef Broth: Helps cook pasta and adds depth of flavor. Low-sodium options are recommended.

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Adds creamy richness and tanginess. Sharp cheddar provides more intense flavor.
• Sour Cream: Creates a smooth, creamy texture. Full-fat version melts better.
• Olive Oil: Helps brown the meat and prevent sticking. Extra virgin olive oil provides best flavor.

Instant Pot Taco Pasta Quick Meal Steps

Step 1: Brown Ground Beef

Heat the Instant Pot using Sauté mode.

Drizzle olive oil and cook ground beef until it transforms into a rich, golden-brown color.

If excess fat appears, carefully drain it away to keep the dish light and flavorful.

Step 2: Infuse Zesty Flavors

Sprinkle taco seasoning over the beef, creating a warm, spicy base.

Pour in diced tomatoes with green chilies and broth, stirring everything together to blend the vibrant flavors seamlessly.

Step 3: Cook Pasta Under Pressure

Nestle pasta into the liquid mixture, gently pressing it down without stirring.

Secure the Instant Pot lid and set to high pressure for 4 minutes.

After cooking, allow natural pressure release for 5 minutes, followed by a quick release to finish the cooking process.

Step 4: Create Creamy Cheesy Finish

Lift the lid and introduce shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream.

Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely, transforming the dish into a luxuriously creamy and indulgent meal.

The result is a smooth, tangy pasta that combines the best of taco and pasta worlds.

Quick Tips for Instant Pot Taco Pasta Night

• Remove extra grease from ground beef to prevent a greasy dish and ensure a cleaner, healthier meal.
• Gently press pasta into liquid without stirring to prevent clumping and ensure even cooking throughout the dish.
• Adjust taco seasoning quantity or use mild/hot versions to match your personal heat preference and family's taste.
• Use pre-cooked ground beef or turkey for an even faster weeknight dinner option that saves precious cooking time.
• Replace dairy cheese with vegan alternatives or use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for lighter, healthier modifications.

Instant Pot Taco Pasta Storage Guide

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Transfer cooled pasta to freezer-safe containers, where it will maintain quality for up to 2 months. Seal tightly to prevent freezer burn.
• Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to restore moisture and prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through.
• Place portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming.

Instant Pot Taco Pasta Sides

• Zesty Mexican Beer Pairing: Crack open a cold Corona or Modelo Especial to complement the spicy taco pasta's bold flavors, cutting through the rich, cheesy texture with a crisp, refreshing finish.
• Creamy Contrast Cocktail: Mix a classic margarita with tequila, lime juice, and triple sec to balance the pasta's heartiness, offering a tangy counterpoint that enhances the dish's zesty profile.
• Cool Cucumber Salsa Side: Prepare a fresh cucumber and tomato salsa with cilantro and lime to add a bright, cool crunch that contrasts the warm, cheesy pasta, providing a light and refreshing accompaniment.
• Cilantro Lime Slaw Companion: Whip up a quick cilantro lime coleslaw with crisp cabbage and a zesty dressing to add texture and acidity, cutting through the pasta's richness and adding a vibrant Mexican-inspired touch.

Taco Pasta in the Instant Pot with Mix-In Ideas

• Vegetarian Fiesta: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or black beans for a protein-packed meatless version. Add extra bell peppers and corn for more texture and flavor.
• Gluten-Free Comfort: Use gluten-free pasta and check that taco seasoning is gluten-free. Substitute with certified gluten-free ingredients to make the dish safe for those with celiac disease.
• Spicy Southwest Kick: Increase heat by adding diced jalapeños, using hot taco seasoning, or mixing in chipotle peppers. Top with pepper jack cheese for an extra spicy punch.
• Low-Carb Mexican Bowl: Skip pasta entirely and serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Use lettuce as a base for a lighter, carb-conscious meal that still delivers bold flavors.

FAQs

• Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works perfectly. Just make sure it’s lean and fully browned before adding other ingredients.

• Is this recipe spicy?

The heat level depends on the taco seasoning and diced tomatoes with green chilies you use. Choose mild versions if you prefer less spice.

• Do I need to precook the pasta?

No, the pasta cooks directly in the Instant Pot with the liquid and meat, absorbing all the delicious flavors during the pressure cooking process.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and check that your taco seasoning is gluten-free to make this dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Instant Pot Taco Pasta Recipe

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4.5 from 19 reviews

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty Instant Pot Taco Pasta blends Mexican-inspired flavors with comforting pasta for a quick weeknight meal. Spicy ground beef, melted cheese, and zesty seasonings come together in one pot, delivering a delicious dinner that satisfies intense cravings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)

Pasta and Base:

• 2 cups uncooked pasta (rotini, penne, or shells)
• 2 cups beef or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 packet (2 tablespoons) taco seasoning
• 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Chopped cilantro
• Jalapenos
• Diced avocado
• Crushed tortilla chips

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Instructions

1. Heat the Instant Pot on sauté function and drizzle olive oil, allowing the surface to warm thoroughly.
2. Introduce ground beef to the pot, breaking it into crumbly fragments and browning until no pink remains visible.
3. Carefully eliminate any accumulated excess fat from the meat’s surface.
4. Generously sprinkle taco seasoning across the browned meat, ensuring thorough coating and aromatic distribution.
5. Pour diced tomatoes with green chilies and broth into the pot, stirring to integrate all flavors comprehensively.
6. Gently nestle pasta into the liquid mixture, ensuring each piece is partially submerged without excessive stirring.
7. Secure the Instant Pot lid, setting the pressure valve to sealing position.
8. Activate high-pressure cooking mode and maintain for precisely 4 minutes.
9. Allow natural pressure release for 5 minutes following cooking completion.
10. Swiftly release remaining pressure using quick release mechanism.
11. Unveil the lid and fold shredded cheddar cheese into the pasta, stirring until completely melted and smoothly incorporated.
12. Incorporate sour cream, blending until the mixture achieves a luxuriously creamy consistency.

Notes

• Choose lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and create a healthier dish without compromising flavor.
• Customize the spice level by adjusting taco seasoning or using mild green chilies for sensitive palates.
• For a gluten-free version, swap regular pasta with chickpea or gluten-free pasta alternatives that hold up well under pressure cooking.
• Elevate the protein content by adding black beans or switching to ground turkey for a lighter protein option.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg