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Turkey Taco Pasta Recipe
Swaggy Eats

Turkey Taco Pasta

This Turkey Taco Pasta is the ultimate high-protein comfort food dinner. Made with lean ground turkey, protein penne, peppers, taco seasoning, and melty Mexican cheese, it’s an easy stovetop recipe the whole family will love. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick, cozy, and packed with flavor.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: dinner, Meal Prep
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 box protein penne pasta (8 oz box)
  • 1 tbsp avocado oil
  • 3 assorted bell peppers, thinly sliced
  • 3 tbsp taco seasoning
  • 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water, as needed
Optional Add-Ins
  • chopped cilantro for a fresh finish
  • crushed red pepper flakes for heat
  • diced avocado for topping

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet
  • Colander

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the protein penne according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
  2. Sauté the peppers: While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced peppers and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, until slightly softened. Transfer to a plate.
  3. Cook the turkey: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon avocado oil to the skillet. Add the ground turkey and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, breaking it apart as it browns.
  4. Season the meat: Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and stir well to coat the turkey. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to help the seasoning evenly coat the meat.
  5. Combine everything: Return the peppers to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together.
  6. Make it cheesy: Stir in the shredded Mexican cheese. Add a little reserved pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, until the cheese melts and lightly coats the pasta.
  7. Serve hot: Spoon into bowls and top with any optional toppings you like.

Notes

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving

Serves: 4
Approximate per serving:
  • Calories: 500
  • Protein: 40g
  • Carbs: 34g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Fiber: 6g
Nutrition is estimated and will vary based on the brand of protein pasta, cheese, and taco seasoning used.