Description

A quick, easy, and comforting weeknight dinner that cooks in a single pot. This creamy taco pasta combines rotini, salsa, taco seasoning, and cheese for a crowd-pleasing meal with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

12 ounces rotini or penne pasta
2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
1 cup salsa (medium or hot)
1 cup heavy cream (full-fat)
2 tablespoons butter
1 packet taco seasoning (or 2–3 tbsp homemade)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small yellow onion, diced
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
½ cup corn (canned or frozen)
½ cup black beans, drained and rinsed
Optional: sliced jalapeños, fresh cilantro, sour cream

Instructions

Prep ingredients: Chop onion, mince garlic, and shred cheese.
Heat butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in uncooked pasta, taco seasoning, and corn. Toast for 1 minute.
Pour in chicken broth and salsa. Stir to combine, scraping up bits from the bottom.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
Remove pot from heat. Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until smooth.
Stir in cooked chicken and black beans. Heat through for 1-2 minutes.
Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
Serve immediately with optional toppings like extra cheese, cilantro, sour cream, and jalapeños.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta; check at 12 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. Shred your own cheese for a smoother sauce. This dish does not freeze well due to the dairy content. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.

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

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 4
Sodium: 600
Fat: 20
Saturated Fat: 10
Carbohydrates: 45
Fiber: 3
Protein: 25

Keywords: one pot pasta, taco pasta, weeknight dinner, easy dinner, creamy pasta, family friendly, quick meals