Name: High Protein Taco Macaroni
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients: ¾ pound 93% lean beef; 1 tablespoon taco seasoning, homemade or package; ½ cup yellow onion, chopped; ½ cup red bell pepper, chopped; ½ cup green bell pepper, chopped; 10 oz can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chiles; 1 ½ cups beef broth; ½ cup milk; 8 ounces macaroni, elbows, baby shells, etc (or gluten-free pasta); 1 cup Mexican blend cheese, or Monterey jack cheese

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Table of Contents: High Protein Taco Macaroni

High Protein Taco Macaroni

Remember those busy weeknights when getting a delicious, satisfying meal on the table felt like a marathon? Well, those days are over! This High Protein Taco Macaroni recipe is a game-changer, offering all the comforting flavors of tacos in a creamy, cheesy pasta dish – and it’s ready in under 30 minutes.

It’s the perfect solution for when you crave something hearty and flavorful but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a protein powerhouse disguised as pure comfort food. We’ve taken the classic taco pasta concept and boosted the nutritional value with lean beef, making it a truly satisfying and guilt-free meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner after a long day, a crowd-pleaser for a casual get-together, or a fun twist on a family favorite, this recipe delivers.

It’s a fantastic high protein meal option that even picky eaters will love. Forget ordering takeout – you can whip up something even better, and healthier, right at home!

This recipe is especially great for those of us who appreciate a little convenience without sacrificing taste. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover taco seasoning, and the simplicity of the ingredients means you likely have most of them already in your pantry. Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit your preferences – add more spice, different veggies, or a dollop of sour cream for the perfect finishing touch.

Alternate Names & Variations

You might also know this delicious dish as Taco Macaroni and Cheese, Cowboy Macaroni, or simply Taco Pasta. It’s a versatile recipe that lends itself well to variations. For a spicier kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or using a hotter variety of Rotel.

You can also swap out the beef for ground turkey or chicken to create a different flavor profile. Looking for a quick dinner idea? This is it!

Ingredients: High Protein Taco Macaroni

Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful and protein-packed meal:

* ¾ pound 93% lean ground beef
* 1 tablespoon taco seasoning, homemade or package
* ½ cup yellow onion, chopped
* ½ cup red bell pepper, chopped
* ½ cup green bell pepper, chopped
* 10 oz can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chiles

* 1 ½ cups beef broth
* ½ cup milk
* 8 ounces macaroni, elbows, baby shells, etc (or gluten-free pasta)
* 1 cup Mexican blend cheese, or Monterey jack cheese, shredded
* Optional garnishes: Fresh cilantro, diced avocado, sour cream, or a squeeze of lime juice.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Chef’s Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan! If necessary, sauté the vegetables in batches to ensure they brown properly.
3. Add the Taco Seasoning & Tomatoes: Stir in the taco seasoning and Rotel diced tomatoes with green chiles. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

4. Simmer with Broth & Milk: Pour in the beef broth and milk. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the macaroni. Shortcut: Use quick-cooking macaroni to save even more time!
5. Cook the Macaroni: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the macaroni is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Melt the Cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded Mexican blend cheese until it’s melted and creamy. Chef’s Tip: Reserve a little cheese for topping if desired!

7. Serve & Garnish: Serve immediately, garnished with your favorite taco toppings like fresh cilantro, diced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, or a squeeze of lime juice.

Recipe Card Block (Quick Reference)

This High Protein Taco Macaroni is ready in a flash!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Approximate Calories: 450 per serving (estimated, will vary based on ingredients used)

Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

This recipe works because it combines the familiar comfort of macaroni and cheese with the bold, zesty flavors of tacos. Using lean ground beef significantly increases the protein content, making it a more satisfying and nutritious meal.

The Rotel tomatoes add a delightful kick of heat, while the beef broth and milk create a creamy, flavorful sauce that coats the macaroni perfectly.

It’s truly easy comfort food for family dinners. The one-pot nature of the recipe minimizes cleanup, which is always a win! To elevate the flavor even further, consider using a high-quality taco seasoning. Homemade taco seasoning is fantastic, but a good store-bought brand will also do the trick.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of cheese – pepper jack would add an extra layer of spice, while cheddar would provide a classic, comforting flavor.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Storage: Leftover High Protein Taco Macaroni can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing: While the texture of the macaroni may change slightly, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop. If reheating on the stovetop, add a splash of milk or beef broth to prevent it from drying out. For frozen macaroni, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This taco pasta reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prepping.

People Also Ask: High Protein Taco Macaroni

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious recipe:

How do you make high protein taco macaroni?

This High Protein Taco Macaroni is incredibly simple to make! You start by browning lean ground beef, then sautéing onions and bell peppers. Next, you add taco seasoning, Rotel tomatoes, beef broth, and milk, and finally, the macaroni. Everything simmers together until the pasta is cooked and the sauce is creamy.

The key is using lean beef to boost the protein content without adding excessive fat. It’s a fantastic high protein meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

What is the protein source in this dish?

The primary protein source in this High Protein Taco Macaroni is the lean ground beef. ¾ pound of 93% lean beef provides a substantial amount of protein per serving. While the macaroni itself contains some protein, the beef is the star when it comes to boosting the nutritional value of this dish.

You could also add a can of drained and rinsed black beans for an extra protein kick and added fiber.

Is this a one-pot meal?

Yes! This recipe is designed to be a convenient one-pot meal. Everything cooks together in a single large skillet or Dutch oven, minimizing cleanup and making it a breeze to prepare. This is a huge benefit for those of us who don’t want to spend hours washing dishes after dinner.

It’s a perfect example of how you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal without a lot of fuss.

Can I add vegetables to taco macaroni?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy to this High Protein Taco Macaroni. Corn, black beans, diced tomatoes (in addition to the Rotel), zucchini, or even spinach would all be delicious additions.

Adding vegetables not only enhances the flavor and nutritional value but also adds texture to the dish. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies for picky eaters!

Conclusion: High Protein Taco Macaroni

So there you have it – a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful High Protein Taco Macaroni recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t let a busy schedule stop you from enjoying a delicious and nutritious meal. Give this recipe a try tonight, and I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised!

I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Share your photos and comments below, and let me know if you made any fun variations. Happy cooking!