When you take a bite of this High Protein Taco Pasta, the warm, savory flavors burst in your mouth, taking you on a delightful culinary journey. This quick and easy dish takes just over 30 minutes to prepare and combines the heartiness of pasta with the exciting zest of taco seasonings. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that satisfies both hunger and taste buds.
This recipe is ideal for busy families or anyone looking for a nutritious meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. You can whip it up on a weeknight or serve it at a casual gathering. Plus, it stores well, making it a fantastic make-ahead option for meal prep or last-minute dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s packed with protein from the turkey or chicken and beans.
- The one-pot method means fewer dishes to clean up!
- Bursting with flavor from taco seasoning and fresh ingredients.
- Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to prepare your taco pasta.
For the Pasta
- 8 oz pasta (elbow or any shape)
For the Protein and Flavor
- 1 lb ground turkey or chicken
- 1 packet taco seasoning
For the Veggies
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
For Creaminess
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
For Cooking
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish
- Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Use low-sodium broth for less salt.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Ground turkey can be swapped for chicken or beef.
- Use quinoa for a gluten-free pasta option.
- Canned corn can be replaced with frozen.
- Fresh herbs can substitute for dried spices.
How to Make It
Follow these easy steps to whip up your delicious taco pasta.
Brown the Meat
In a large skillet, brown the ground turkey or chicken over medium heat until fully cooked.
Add Seasoning
Add the taco seasoning and stir well to combine.
Incorporate Ingredients
Add the pasta, chicken broth, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes to the skillet.
Simmer
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes or until the pasta is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
Mix in Cheese
Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and combined.
Season
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: No, pasta texture may suffer.
Reheat: Microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
Tips for Best Results
- Stir occasionally while simmering to avoid sticking.
- Choose a pasta shape that holds sauce well for better flavor.
- Adjust taco seasoning to suit your spice preference.
- Consider adding diced bell peppers for extra veggies.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Serve with tortilla chips for added crunch.
- Perfect for taco night with a twist!
