High Protein Taco Pasta
A delicious fusion of tacos and pasta, this High Protein Taco Pasta is a nutritious and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz Pasta Choose your favorite type—whole grain, gluten-free, or chickpea pasta.
- 1 lb Ground Protein Choose ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative.
- 1 cup Bell Peppers Diced, any color.
- 1 cup Onions Diced.
- 1 packet Taco Seasoning Store-bought or homemade.
- 14.5 oz Canned Tomatoes Fire-roasted diced tomatoes for extra flavor.
- 1 cup Cheese Optional, use low-fat cheese or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Instructions
Cooking
- Cook Your Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
- Sauté the Veggies: In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and bell peppers. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Brown the Protein: Push the veggies to the side of the skillet and add the ground protein. Cook until browned and thoroughly cooked through, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
- Add Seasoning and Tomatoes: Sprinkle your taco seasoning over the meat mixture, stirring it in. Pour in the canned tomatoes (and their juices) and mix well. Add some reserved pasta water to adjust consistency as desired.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated and everything is heated through.
- Final Touches: Stir in cheese if desired and let it melt into the mixture. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for extra zing.
Notes
Consider experimenting with different pasta types or homemade taco seasoning for a personalized touch. This dish keeps well for meal prep—store in an airtight container.