Description

A reliable, creamy, and spicy one-pot dinner that combines ground beef, elbow macaroni, salsa, and cheese. It’s budget-friendly, easy to make, and perfect for busy weeknights with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground beef or turkey
12 ounces elbow macaroni or rotini
2 cups chicken or beef broth (low-sodium)
1 cup salsa (chunky medium or hot)
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
1 teaspoon cumin
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, minced
2 cups shredded Mexican blend or Cheddar cheese
4 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
1 cup frozen corn (optional)
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
2 stalks green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef or turkey and break into small crumbles. Cook until browned and no pink remains. Drain excess grease if using beef.
Reduce heat to medium. Add minced onion and garlic to the meat. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until onion is translucent and fragrant.
Stir in taco seasoning and cumin. Cook for 30 seconds to toast spices. Pour in salsa and stir to combine. Simmer for 1 minute.
Add dry pasta and broth to the skillet. Stir well to scrape up browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring every 3-4 minutes to prevent sticking. Add a splash of broth or water if too dry.
Remove skillet from heat. Stir in shredded cheese and cream cheese gradually until completely melted and smooth.
Fold in corn and black beans if using. Taste and adjust salt if needed. Serve immediately topped with green onions, sour cream, or cilantro.

Notes

Shred your own cheese to avoid anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness. Remove from heat before adding cheese to prevent graininess. Pasta continues to cook in residual heat, so pull it off when al dente.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 480
Sugar: 4
Sodium: 650
Fat: 20
Saturated Fat: 10
Carbohydrates: 52
Fiber: 3
Protein: 22

Keywords: one-pot meal, cheesy pasta, taco pasta, easy dinner, family friendly, budget meal, ground beef recipes, weeknight dinner