5-Ingredient Cheesy Turkey Taco Pasta
This simple 5-ingredient cheesy turkey taco pasta is the ultimate lazy weeknight dinner — delicious, high-protein, kid approved, and ready in just 30 minutes. It's an easy comfort food recipe that's perfect for when you're craving a cozy bowl of pasta!
Equipment
- Large saucepan or pot for boiling pasta
- Large deep skillet
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 8 oz pasta any type of pasta works!
- 3 tbsp taco seasoning
- 1 cup salsa
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Pantry staples
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the pasta:In a large pot of salted water, boil pasta according to package directions. Reserve about ¼ cup of pasta water. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the ground turkey: In a large deep skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tbsp of olive oil. Once the oil is heated, add ground turkey and cook for 4-5 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Add taco seasoning and salsa: When turkey is cooked about halfway through (still pink in some parts - see picture), add the taco seasoning, salsa, and 1 tbsp water. Mix well to coat the turkey. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until ground turkey is cooked through.
- Combine with pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir to combine all ingredients. Simmer for 2-3 minutes. If dish seems too dry, add 1-2 tbsp of reserved pasta water.
- Add cheese and melt: Turn off the heat. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and stir until melted and creamy.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Add the taco seasoning and salsa when the turkey is cooked halfway through so that it can absorb the yummy flavors as it cooks
- Want your turkey taco pasta extra creamy? Add in a tablespoon or two of sour cream!
- For extra spice, use hot salsa or add chili flakes while cooking
- Double the batch for meal prep—it reheats beautifully!