Easy One-Pot Taco Macaroni for a High-Protein Dinner (Print Version)
One-Pot Taco Macaroni delivers a high-protein dinner in a single pot. Quick to prepare, this flavorful dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
# Ingredients:
→ Hearty Protein & Aromatics
01 -
1 tbsp olive oil
02 -
1 lb lean ground beef (90/10 or leaner)
03 -
1 yellow onion, diced
04 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Saucy Taco Foundation
05 -
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
06 -
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
07 -
1/2 cup water
08 -
1 (1.25 oz) packet taco seasoning
09 -
1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
10 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Creamy Cheesy Finish
11 -
1/2 cup 2% milk
12 -
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
13 -
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
→ Fresh Zesty Toppers
14 -
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
15 -
1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)
# Instructions:
01 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb lean ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned. Drain any excess fat from the pot to ensure a leaner dish.
02 -
Add 1 yellow onion, diced, to the pot with the browned beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion softens. Stir in 2 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
03 -
Pour in 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained, 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth, and 1/2 cup water. Stir in 1 (1.25 oz) packet taco seasoning. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, ensuring all ingredients are well combined for your Easy One-Pot Taco Macaroni for a High-Protein Dinner.
04 -
Add 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked) to the boiling liquid. Stir thoroughly to submerge the pasta. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
05 -
Remove the pot from the heat. Season the Easy One-Pot Taco Macaroni for a High-Protein Dinner with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in 1/2 cup 2% milk, 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened, until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
06 -
Let the Easy One-Pot Taco Macaroni for a High-Protein Dinner rest, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld. This brief rest enhances the overall texture. Garnish with 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, and serve immediately with 1 lime, cut into wedges, for a bright, zesty finish.
# Notes:
01 -
For an extra protein boost or different flavor, try ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef. You can also use whole wheat macaroni for added fiber.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
03 -
Elevate your taco macaroni with optional toppings like diced avocado, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, or a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips for crunch.
04 -
Stirring the macaroni occasionally during simmering is crucial to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot and ensures even cooking. If the sauce seems too thick, add a tablespoon or two of broth.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot or Dutch oven
02 -
Cutting board
03 -
Knife
04 -
Measuring cups
05 -
Measuring spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 596 kcal
Total Fat: 28 g
Total Carbohydrate: 43 g
Protein: 41 g