Name: High Protein Creamy Taco Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef (96% lean); 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 bell peppers, chopped (any color); 2 packets taco seasoning; 1 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed; 8 oz block cream cheese, cut into cubes; 1 lb pasta, cooked and drained; 1 cup 2% reduced-fat ultra-filtered milk (plus more for desired sauce consistency); Salt & pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

This High Protein Creamy Taco Pasta is a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining lean ground beef with creamy cheese sauce and flavorful taco spices, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and packed with protein.

A close-up image of a creamy pasta casserole in a white rectangular dish, showing penne pasta mixed with ground meat, black beans, and small chunks of red bell peppers, all coated in a light brown sauce. The dish is topped with chopped green parsley scattered evenly across the surface. The background features a white marbled texture with a white cloth partially visible on the right side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb lean ground beef (96% lean)
1 medium onion, chopped
2 bell peppers, chopped (any color)
2 packets taco seasoning
1 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
8 oz block cream cheese, cut into cubes
1 lb pasta, cooked and drained
1 cup 2% reduced-fat ultra-filtered milk (plus more for desired sauce consistency)
Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks until it starts to brown.
Step 2: When the beef is about halfway browned, stir in the chopped onion and bell peppers. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the vegetables soften. Drain any excess liquid.
Step 3: Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef and vegetables. Stir well to coat evenly, adding 1/4 cup water if needed to help blend the seasoning.
Step 4: Stir in the drained and rinsed black beans. Cook for 1–2 minutes until heated through.
Step 5: Reduce heat to low. Add the cream cheese cubes and milk. Stir frequently until the cream cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss to coat with the creamy taco beef mixture. Add a splash of milk if you prefer a thinner sauce.
Step 7: Serve immediately, garnished with optional toppings like shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, or sliced jalapeños if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when cooking the vegetables.
Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-friendly.
Add corn kernels or diced tomatoes for added texture and flavor.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a creamy pasta bake in a white rectangular dish. There are three main layers visible: the creamy sauce clings to the penne pasta, making the pasta look light brown with a glossy texture; mixed throughout are cooked ground meat in small pieces and black beans that add dark spots; small diced red peppers provide pops of red color, and the dish is garnished with fresh, chopped green parsley scattered on top, adding a fresh contrast. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface with a white cloth partially visible on the right. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape you prefer will work well. Just be sure to cook it according to package instructions and drain before adding to the sauce.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

You can freeze this dish, but the creamy sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. For best results, freeze without the cream cheese and add it fresh when reheating.