When the aroma of sizzling garlic and seasoned beef fills your kitchen, you know something delicious is on the way. This High Protein Taco Pasta combines the comfort of pasta with zesty taco flavors, creating a dish that comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s a perfect way to sneak in protein without sacrificing taste, with each serving packing a whopping 36g of protein.
This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty yet easy to prepare. Meal prep enthusiasts will love that you can store this dish for leftovers or make it ahead for quick lunches.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with 36g of protein per serving to fuel your day.
- Creamy texture from cottage cheese and Greek yogurt enhances the flavor.
- Quick to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.
- Versatile toppings allow for customization with every serving.
What You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious dish:
For the Pasta
- 12 oz high-protein rotini or penne pasta (such as Banza or Barilla Protein+)
For the Sauce
- 1 lb 93% lean ground beef
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 1 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles (Rotel), undrained
- 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Aromatics
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Serving
- 1 cup reduced-fat shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided
- Optional toppings: sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, diced jalapeño, hot sauce
Try Greek yogurt for a creamier texture.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef.
- Use any pasta shape you prefer.
- Low-fat cream cheese can replace cottage cheese.
- Fresh herbs can enhance flavor over dried spices.
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps to whip up your High Protein Taco Pasta.
1. Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Onions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent.
3. Cook the Garlic
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Brown the Beef
Add the lean ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes until fully browned. Drain any excess fat if needed.
5. Season the Beef
Sprinkle the taco seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika over the beef. Stir well to coat evenly.
6. Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with green chiles and the beef broth. Stir to combine and let simmer for 3 to 4 minutes over medium heat.
7. Make It Creamy
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the cottage cheese and Greek yogurt until fully incorporated and the sauce becomes creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time.
8. Combine with Pasta
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the taco meat sauce.
9. Melt the Cheese
Stir in 3/4 cup of the shredded Mexican cheese until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
10. Serve
Serve immediately topped with the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheese and any optional toppings such as green onions, cilantro, diced jalapeño, or hot sauce.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Yes, freezes well for meal prep.
Reheat: Microwave for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through.
Tips for Best Results
- Use lean ground beef to keep it healthier.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
- For more spice, add diced jalapeños while cooking.
- Stir in fresh herbs just before serving for extra freshness.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair it with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Enjoy with tortilla chips for added crunch.
- Serve for a cozy family dinner or potluck.
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