Instant Pot Taco Pasta
This Instant Pot Taco Pasta makes a quick and easy weeknight dinner thats sure to be a hit with the entire family I love having this easy cheesy vegetarian pasta dish in our weekly dinner rotation I used a 6 quart Instant Pot for this recipe
This Instant Pot Taco Pasta makes a quick and easy weeknight dinner thats sure to be a hit with the entire family I love having this easy cheesy vegetarian pasta dish in our weekly dinner rotation I used a 6 quart Instant Pot for this recipe
- pico de gallo
- 1 tsp chili powder
- salsa
- salsa verde
- 1/2 cup black beans
- salt and pepper (to taste)
- guacamole
- greek yogurt or sour cream
- fresh chopped cilantro
- 1 cup diced yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic ((minced))
- sliced jalapeã±os
- chopped tomato
- 1 tbsp avocado oil ((or equivalent))
- 1.5 cups water ((do not skip))
- 2 cups enchilada sauce ((approx. 19-20 oz))
- 10 oz canned diced tomatoes with green chiles
- 1 tsp chumin
- 3 cups medium pasta shells
- 1/2-1 cup canned corn*
- 2 cups grated cheese**
- lime wedges ((squeeze on top for a tasty burst of
- Carbohydrate 14.9847535056121 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.44423933346115 g
- Fiber 4.645509985878 g
- Protein 4.50475816876381 g
- Saturated Fat 0.0884481666995677 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (237g)
- Sodium 779.829666666903 mg
- Sugar 10.3392435197341 g
- Trans Fat 0.0571981666957806 g
- Calories 74 calories
Step-by-step
- Set your Instant Pot to SAUTE function and add your oil.
- Test for readiness by adding in a piece of onion and, once sizzling, add your onion and sauté until tender.
- Next add your garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Press the off button then add your water, enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, chili powder and cumin.
- If desired you could use a bit of taco seasoning here to replace the individual spices.
- For a bit of heat, feel free to add cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce.
- Lastly add your pasta and pat down into the liquid without stirring, so noodles are covered.
- Lock the lid, ensuring valve is in sealed position.
- Set Instant Pot to 3 minutes at HIGH pressure.
- Once the IP beeps, quickly release the pressure by turning the valve to vent and releasing the steam/pressure.
- Once the pin has dropped you may safely remove the lid.
- The pasta will seem a bit watery at first.
- Add your corn and black beans and mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper, to taste and sprinkle with cheese.
- Return the lid to the pot and allow the cheese to melt and the beans to warm through, approx. 1-2 minutes.
- I like my pasta slightly al-dente so if you'd like it a bit softer simply let it sit a little longer in the pot with the lid on and you're good to go!
- Time to dig in! Plate with all your favorite taco night toppings and get ready to faceplant! I added tomatoes, jalapenos, and cilantro to mine with a dollop of sour cream - yum!
Instant Pot Taco Pasta: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying dinner after a long day can feel like an impossible task. That’s why I’ve become a huge fan of one-pot meals, especially those that can be whipped up quickly in my trusty Instant Pot. This Instant Pot Taco Pasta recipe has become a staple in our weekly meal rotation, a true lifesaver on those hectic weeknights when time is of the essence.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. It's a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. You can easily customize it to your preferences and what you have on hand. Need to use up leftover vegetables? Toss them in! Prefer a spicier kick? Add some extra chili flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. The possibilities are truly endless, making this a versatile dish that never gets old.
I love how the Instant Pot perfectly cooks the pasta while simultaneously infusing the sauce with incredible flavor. The result is a creamy, cheesy, and incredibly comforting pasta dish that the entire family will adore. Even my picky eaters can't resist this one! It’s the perfect blend of comfort food and quick convenience, a true win-win situation for busy families.
Beyond the Weeknight: This recipe isn't just for busy weeknights. It’s also fantastic for potlucks, game days, or even a casual weekend lunch. It’s easily doubled or tripled to feed a crowd, making it a perfect dish for any gathering. And the best part? The cleanup is minimal! One pot, minimal dishes – what more could a busy mom ask for?
Tips and Tricks for Taco Pasta Perfection:
- Pasta Choice: While I prefer using medium pasta shells, feel free to experiment with other short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or even elbows.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference. Start with less and gradually add more until you achieve your desired level of heat.
- Cheese Selection: I usually use a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack, but any Mexican blend or your favorite shredded cheese will work wonderfully.
- Toppings Galore: The best part about this recipe is the endless topping possibilities! Get creative and add your favorite taco toppings like sour cream, guacamole, salsa, pico de gallo, or shredded lettuce. The combinations are endless!
Making Memories, One Delicious Meal at a Time:
In the midst of our busy lives, taking time to gather around the table for a shared meal is invaluable. It’s a chance to reconnect with family, share stories, and create lasting memories. This Instant Pot Taco Pasta is more than just a recipe; it’s a catalyst for those cherished moments. It’s a simple, delicious meal that brings people together and reminds us of the importance of slowing down and savoring the simple pleasures in life. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and watch your family fall in love with this easy, crowd-pleasing dish!
Beyond its practicality, this recipe speaks to the heart of home-style cooking – warmth, comfort, and a touch of personal flair. It's a meal that embodies the spirit of bringing people together and reminds me of the joys of simple, shared meals.
I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do. It's a testament to the fact that even on the busiest of days, you can create something delicious and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Happy cooking!
