1. Cook the Ground Beef

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef to the pot. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break up the beef into smaller pieces as it cooks. Brown the beef for about 5-7 minutes until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink. If there’s excess fat, drain it off.

2. Add Vegetables

Once the beef is browned, add the diced onion and bell pepper (if using) to the pot. Stir the vegetables into the beef and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until they are softened. Adding vegetables helps boost the nutritional value of the dish and enhances the flavor profile.

3. Add Garlic and Taco Seasoning

Next, add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for another minute to allow the spices to release their flavors. The taco seasoning will give the beef a rich, savory taste, and the garlic will add an aromatic depth to the dish.

4. Add Tomatoes, Green Chilies, and Broth

Now, pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the can of diced green chilies (if using). Stir everything together. Then, add the beef broth to the pot, bringing the mixture to a simmer. The broth helps to cook the pasta and gives the dish a nice, flavorful base.

5. Cook the Pasta

Add the uncooked pasta to the pot, stirring to combine. Make sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the flavors of the broth and seasoning. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

6. Add the Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed, it’s time to stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix the cheese into the pasta until it’s melted and fully incorporated, creating a creamy, cheesy texture. You can add more cheese if you want an even cheesier dish. The cheese will bring richness and flavor to the dish.

7. Optional: Add Sour Cream for Creaminess

For extra creaminess, you can stir in some sour cream at this stage. This will make the dish even richer and provide a smooth texture. If you prefer a lighter version, you can skip the sour cream or use Greek yogurt as a substitute.

8. Season to Taste

Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or taco seasoning if you like a stronger flavor. If you want a spicier dish, feel free to add more chili powder or hot sauce.

9. Serve and Garnish

Once everything is well combined and the cheese is melted, remove the pot from the heat. Serve the One Pot Beef Taco Pasta in bowls, garnished with chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness. If you like, you can top the pasta with additional sour cream or shredded cheese.