This is one of those recipes I created on a busy weeknight with just a few things in the fridge — and now it’s a forever favorite in our house.

This One-Pot Ground Turkey Taco Pasta is the perfect mashup of taco night and pasta night. It’s hearty, cheesy (if you want it), and full of that bold Tex-Mex flavor… all made in one pot for easy cleanup. No draining, no extra dishes — just real ingredients and cozy vibes.

It’s high in protein, super family-friendly, and comes together in under 30 minutes. Total win.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground turkey

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 packet clean taco seasoning (or homemade – see tips)

• 8 oz whole wheat or chickpea pasta (shells or rotini work great)

• 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth

• 1 cup salsa (mild or medium)

• ½ cup canned black beans (optional)

• ½ cup corn (fresh or frozen)

• ½ cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional toppings: avocado, cilantro, Greek yogurt, lime wedges

Instructions:

1. Brown the turkey
   In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until browned. Add garlic and taco seasoning; stir well to coat.

2. Add liquids and pasta
   Stir in the uncooked pasta, broth, and salsa. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.

3. Add beans, corn & cheese
   Stir in black beans, corn, and cheese if using. Cook another 1–2 minutes until everything is warm and melty.

4. Serve & top
   Spoon into bowls and top with your favorite taco toppings — we love avocado, lime juice, and a dollop of Greek yogurt.

Sarah’s Tips:

• Make your own taco seasoning: Mix 1 tsp chili powder, ½ tsp cumin, ½ tsp paprika, ¼ tsp garlic powder, ¼ tsp onion powder, and salt to taste.

• Use gluten-free pasta if needed — just watch the cook time.

• Add veggies: Stir in spinach or bell peppers for an extra veggie boost.

• Great for leftovers: This reheats really well and makes amazing next-day lunches.

Flavorful Conclusion:

This One-Pot Ground Turkey Taco Pasta is everything I want in a weeknight dinner — warm, filling, easy, and made with real ingredients. It’s a little cheesy, a little spicy, and totally crowd-pleasing. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or just a regular Thursday, this is one recipe I know I can count on.

Nutrition (per serving, serves 4):

• Calories: 410

• Protein: 31g

• Carbs: 34g

• Fat: 18g

• Fiber: 5g

• Sugar: 4g