One Skillet Taco Pasta with Vegetables
Try this One Skillet Taco Pasta with Vegetables recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this One Skillet Taco Pasta with Vegetables recipe, or contribute your own.
- sour cream
- diced avocado
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 teaspoons of cumin
- salt and black pepper to taste
- black olives
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic minced
- green onions
- 1/2 cup canned black beans drained and rinsed
- fresh chopped cilantro
- 2 cups baby spinach chopped
- 1 medium zucchini diced
- 1 jalapeno, seeded and diced
- 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
- 2 teaspoons of chili powder
- 1 1/ b ground turkey or beef
- 1 cup corn kernels frozen or canned
- 1 red bell pepper cored, seeded and diced
- 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes undrained
- 1 cup of tomato sauce or salsa
- 2 cups of low sodium chicken broth
- 2 1/2 cups medium pasta shells (i used gluten free rotini)
- 2 cups of shredded colby-jack or cheddar cheese
- additional toppings (optional)
- Carbohydrate 25.1203576155968 g
- Cholesterol 5.85 mg
- Fat 3.70854899218092 g
- Fiber 6.30685596019669 g
- Protein 6.24430204990755 g
- Saturated Fat 1.42832269564553 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (256g)
- Sodium 1244.44774629242 mg
- Sugar 18.8135016554001 g
- Trans Fat 0.326870000030559 g
- Calories 147 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large skillet over medium heat, saute onion and garlic in olive oil over medium heat, for 1 or 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add bell pepper and cook for another minute.
- Add ground meat to skillet and cook until brown, about 4-5 minutes, breaking up the meat as it cooks.
- Season with salt and black pepper, to taste.
- Drain any excess fat.
- Add entire can of crushed tomatoes (undrained), tomato sauce, chicken broth, dried pasta, seasonings, corn, chicken broth.
- Bring to a simmer, cover and reduce heat to low.
- Cook for 12 minutes, stirring gently every few minutes so the pasta doesn't stick.
- Stir in chopped spinach and zucchini and replace lid and allow to cook for an addition 4-5 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Season additionally, as needed.
- Once pasta is tender, remove from heat and stir in one cup of cheese.
- Top with additional cheese as desired and replace lid to let cheese melt.
- Once cheese has melted, top with toppings with green onions, diced avocados, cilantro, sour cream and any other toppings of your choice.
One-Skillet Taco Pasta: A Weeknight Dinner Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious dinner can feel like a Herculean task. Between school pick-ups, after-school activities, and the never-ending cycle of laundry and work emails, the last thing I want is to spend hours slaving over a hot stove. That's why I'm so thrilled to share this One-Skillet Taco Pasta recipe—a lifesaver for weeknights and a crowd-pleaser for the whole family.
This recipe ticks all the boxes for me: it's quick (ready in under 20 minutes!), easy (minimal cleanup!), and incredibly flavorful. The combination of taco seasoning, juicy ground meat (I prefer turkey for a leaner option), and vibrant vegetables creates a vibrant and satisfying meal. And the best part? It’s all cooked in one skillet! This means less washing up, which is a huge win in my book.
I love how versatile this dish is. Feel free to adapt it to your liking. Don't have bell peppers? Use zucchini or mushrooms instead. Not a fan of cilantro? Leave it out! This recipe is your blank canvas; feel free to experiment with different vegetables, cheeses, and toppings. One time I even added some leftover roasted sweet potatoes, and it was divine!
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. There's no need for complex techniques or obscure ingredients. Everything comes together beautifully in one skillet, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It's also a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables for picky eaters. My kids, who usually turn their noses up at vegetables, devour this dish without complaint.
Tips for Success:
- Use good quality ground meat: The flavor of the ground meat will significantly impact the taste of the dish. Opt for lean ground turkey or beef for a healthier option.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Follow the package directions for cooking time, but remember that the pasta will continue to cook in the sauce. Overcooked pasta can become mushy.
- Adjust the spice level to your preference: If you prefer a spicier dish, add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Make it your own: This recipe is a starting point. Feel free to add your own favorite vegetables, beans, or toppings. Get creative!
- Prepare ahead: Chop the vegetables ahead of time to save time on busy weeknights.
This One-Skillet Taco Pasta is more than just a quick meal; it’s a testament to the fact that healthy, delicious food doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. It's a weeknight warrior, a family favorite, and a dish that consistently delivers on flavor and ease. So, ditch the takeout menus, embrace the simplicity, and enjoy this delightful and satisfying meal!
Beyond the deliciousness and convenience, this recipe offers a sense of accomplishment. Knowing I created a flavorful and satisfying meal from scratch, using simple ingredients, leaves me feeling empowered and confident in my culinary abilities. It's a small victory in the midst of a busy life, a reminder that even amidst chaos, I can still prioritize healthy eating and create a comforting meal for myself and my family.
This One-Skillet Taco Pasta isn’t just a meal; it’s a symbol of efficiency, deliciousness, and the joy of creating something wonderful from simple elements. Try it tonight, and let me know what you think!
