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Taco Pasta with High Protein
why make this recipe
High Protein Taco Pasta is a delicious and easy way to enjoy the flavors of tacos while getting a good amount of protein. It combines pasta with hearty ingredients like ground turkey or beef, black beans, and corn. This dish is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a fun meal with friends. Plus, it’s customizable with toppings to suit everyone’s taste.
how to make High Protein Taco Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (whole wheat or regular)
- 1 lb ground turkey or beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños
Directions:
- In a large pan, brown the ground turkey or beef over medium heat until fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Drain any excess fat and stir in the taco seasoning.
- Add the chicken broth, pasta, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes to the pan. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente.
- Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, topped with optional sour cream, cilantro, and jalapeños.
how to serve High Protein Taco Pasta
Serve High Protein Taco Pasta hot straight from the pan. You can dish it out into bowls and let everyone add their favorite toppings like sour cream, cilantro, and jalapeños. This makes it fun and allows guests to personalize their meals.
how to store High Protein Taco Pasta
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just thaw before reheating.
tips to make High Protein Taco Pasta
- For added flavor, try adding fresh garlic or onions while cooking the meat.
- Use whole grain pasta for an extra boost of fiber.
- Adjust the spice level by adding hot sauce or using spicy taco seasoning.
variation
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by replacing the ground meat with a plant-based meat substitute or adding extra beans and veggies. You can also use different types of pasta, such as penne or rotini, to change up the texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use ground chicken, pork, or even a meat substitute like lentils or tempeh for a vegetarian option.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, swap regular pasta with a gluten-free pasta option.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to increase the veggie content and flavor.
High Protein Taco Pasta
A delicious and easy pasta dish that combines taco flavors with high protein ingredients, perfect for busy weeknight dinners or fun meals with friends.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (whole wheat or regular)
- 1 lb ground turkey or beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pan, brown the ground turkey or beef over medium heat until fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Drain any excess fat and stir in the taco seasoning.
- Add the chicken broth, pasta, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes to the pan. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente.
- Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
- Serve hot, topped with optional sour cream, cilantro, and jalapeños.
Notes
For added flavor, try adding fresh garlic or onions while cooking the meat. Use whole grain pasta for an extra boost of fiber. Adjust the spice level by adding hot sauce or using spicy taco seasoning. To store leftovers, let the pasta cool to room temperature and transfer it to an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator or freeze for up to 2 months.
