Why Make This Recipe
High Protein Taco Pasta is a delicious and nutritious dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Packed with protein from ground turkey or beef and black beans, it not only fuels your body but also satisfies your taste buds with its bold taco flavors. Plus, it’s easy to make in just one skillet, which means less clean-up for you!
How to Make High Protein Taco Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (e.g., penne or rotini)
- 1 lb ground turkey or beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Directions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground turkey or beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add the taco seasoning and 1 cup of broth to the skillet; stir well.
- Add the pasta to the skillet and cover with the salsa, black beans, and corn. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for about 15-20 minutes, or until pasta is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve warm.
How to Serve High Protein Taco Pasta
Serve High Protein Taco Pasta warm in bowls. You can add extra toppings like sour cream, diced tomatoes, or avocado if you like. It pairs well with a simple green salad or some tortilla chips on the side.
How to Store High Protein Taco Pasta
To store leftover High Protein Taco Pasta, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can stay in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in portions. Just remember to thaw before reheating.
Tips to Make High Protein Taco Pasta
- For more flavor, add diced onions, bell peppers, or garlic while browning the meat.
- You can use whole grain or gluten-free pasta if you prefer.
- Adjust the spice level by using a hot salsa or adding jalapeños.
Variation
You can easily switch up the protein by using ground chicken, pork, or even a meat substitute for a vegetarian option. For a creamy version, add a bit of cream cheese or sour cream before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! You can use any type of pasta you like, such as spaghetti or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can make it vegetarian by using black beans and corn, and substituting ground turkey or beef with a plant-based meat alternative.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it for a quick meal during the week. Just store it in the fridge as mentioned earlier.
Print
High Protein Taco Pasta
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: High Protein
Description
A delicious and nutritious taco-flavored pasta dish packed with protein, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (e.g., penne or rotini)
- 1 lb ground turkey or beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground turkey or beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add the taco seasoning and 1 cup of broth to the skillet; stir well.
- Add the pasta to the skillet and cover with the salsa, black beans, and corn. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for about 15-20 minutes, or until pasta is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
For added flavor, include diced onions, bell peppers, or garlic while browning the meat. You can also make it vegetarian by using plant-based meat alternatives.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
