Can I use different pasta shapes?

Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer. Just ensure you adjust the water slightly if using more than a pound to cook evenly.

Are beans necessary in this dish?

Beans are optional and can be omitted or swapped with your preferred variety to add texture and protein.

How do I avoid a burn signal in the Instant Pot?

Scrape the bottom thoroughly after browning beef to remove any stuck bits which could trigger a burn warning.

Can I prepare this without frozen peppers and onions?

Fresh or canned peppers and onions can be used, though frozen options save prep time and blend well into the dish.

What are good topping options for this pasta?

Sliced green onions, sour cream, and crushed tortilla chips add texture and fresh contrast to the creamy cheesy pasta.

Instant Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta

Section: Creamy & Cheesy Pasta Recipes

This cheesy taco pasta blends browned ground beef, savory salsa, and tender pasta noodles cooked together for a hearty one-pot meal. Frozen peppers and onions add vibrant flavor while seasonings and melted cheddar cheese bring it all together. The pasta cooks without pre-boiling, soaking up the rich tomato and spice base. Topped with green onions, sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips, this dish offers speedy comfort with minimal prep and cleanup. Its balance of protein, spices, and creamy cheese makes it a satisfying dinner option for any weeknight.

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By Dina

Last modified on Fri, 12 Dec 2025 17:20:08 GMT

A bowl of chili with cheese and chives. | dinabakery.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use different pasta shapes?: Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer. Just ensure you adjust the water slightly if using more than a pound to cook evenly.
→ Are beans necessary in this dish?: Beans are optional and can be omitted or swapped with your preferred variety to add texture and protein.
→ How do I avoid a burn signal in the Instant Pot?: Scrape the bottom thoroughly after browning beef to remove any stuck bits which could trigger a burn warning.
→ Can I prepare this without frozen peppers and onions?: Fresh or canned peppers and onions can be used, though frozen options save prep time and blend well into the dish.
→ What are good topping options for this pasta?: Sliced green onions, sour cream, and crushed tortilla chips add texture and fresh contrast to the creamy cheesy pasta.

Instant Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta

Quick cheesy taco pasta with ground beef, salsa, and cheddar, cooked effortlessly in one pot.

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cooking Time

4 minutes

Total Preparation Time

19 minutes

By: Dina

Featured in: Pasta

Difficulty Level: Easy

Cuisine Type: American

Number of Portions: 6 Serving Size

Dietary Options: ~

The Ingredients You'll Need

→ Proteins

01 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10)

02 2 (15 oz) cans light red kidney beans, drained (optional)

→ Vegetables

03 1 cup frozen mixed peppers and onions

→ Liquids & Sauces

04 3 cups water

05 15 oz can tomato sauce

06 1 cup salsa

→ Seasonings

07 1 packet taco seasoning

08 ½ tsp garlic salt

09 ½ tsp black pepper

→ Pasta

10 1 lb shell pasta, uncooked

→ Dairy

11 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

→ Toppings (optional)

12 Sliced green onions

13 Sour cream

14 Crushed tortilla chips

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 01

Set a 6-quart Instant Pot to sauté on high. Add ground beef, frozen peppers, and onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until beef is browned and cooked through. Drain excess grease and return contents to the pot.

Step 02

Turn off the sauté setting. Pour in water and scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits, preventing burn errors during pressure cooking.

Step 03

Stir in tomato sauce, salsa, taco seasoning, garlic salt, and black pepper until fully combined.

Step 04

Add uncooked shell pasta and drained kidney beans, pressing down to ensure pasta is submerged under liquid.

Step 05

Secure the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on manual high pressure for 4 minutes. Perform a quick pressure release once done.

Step 06

Carefully open the lid and stir in shredded cheddar until melted and evenly distributed. Serve immediately, optionally topped with green onions, sour cream, and crushed tortilla chips.

Extra Tips

Lean ground beef (90/10) reduces grease needing to be drained, minimizing cleanup.
Scraping the pot bottom after sautéing prevents burn warnings.
Any pasta shape up to 1 lb can be used uncooked; adjust water accordingly for larger amounts.
Kidney beans are optional and interchangeable with other beans.
Frozen pepper and onion mix expedites preparation.