Easy One-Pot Taco Macaroni: High-Protein Dinner (Print Version)
High-protein one-pot taco macaroni for a quick, easy weeknight dinner. Flavorful ground meat, pasta, and cheese in one skillet.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ Hearty Foundation
01 -
1 lb lean ground beef (90/10 or 93/7)
02 -
1/2 yellow onion, diced
03 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Taco Flavor Fiesta
04 -
2 tbsp taco seasoning blend
05 -
1 tsp chili powder
06 -
1 tsp ground cumin
07 -
1/2 tsp kosher salt
08 -
1/4 tsp black pepper
→ Creamy Macaroni Core
09 -
12 oz elbow macaroni (about 3 cups dry)
10 -
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
11 -
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
12 -
1/2 cup milk (2% or whole)
13 -
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
→ Fresh Finishes & Zesty Toppers
14 -
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
15 -
2 green onions, sliced, for garnish
16 -
1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream, for serving (optional)
# Instructions:
01 -
In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown 1 lb lean ground beef over medium-high heat. Add 1/2 yellow onion, diced, and 2 cloves garlic, minced; cook until onion softens, about 3-5 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
02 -
Stir in 2 tbsp taco seasoning blend, 1 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp kosher salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This is key for your Easy One-Pot Taco Macaroni: High-Protein Dinner.
03 -
Add 12 oz elbow macaroni, 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth, and 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained). Stir well to combine all ingredients, ensuring the macaroni is submerged for your Easy One-Pot Taco Macaroni: High-Protein Dinner.
04 -
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
05 -
Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in 1/2 cup milk and 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese until completely melted and creamy. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken slightly, perfecting your Easy One-Pot Taco Macaroni: High-Protein Dinner.
06 -
Garnish generously with 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, and 2 green onions, sliced. Serve immediately, optionally with 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream for an extra creamy finish. Enjoy this satisfying Easy One-Pot Taco Macaroni: High-Protein Dinner!
# Notes:
01 -
For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the taco seasoning. You can also swap cheddar for a Mexican blend cheese.
02 -
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk.
03 -
Feel free to add a can of drained black beans or corn along with the diced tomatoes for added fiber and vegetables.
04 -
Ensure you stir the macaroni frequently during simmering to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot and cooking unevenly.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot or Dutch oven
02 -
Cutting board
03 -
Chef's knife
04 -
Measuring cups
05 -
Measuring spoons
06 -
Wooden spoon or spatula
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 790 kcal
Total Fat: 29 g
Total Carbohydrate: 76 g
Protein: 54 g