Description
Taco Mac and Cheese is a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful fusion of two favorites: mac and cheese and taco-seasoned ground beef. This hearty one-pot dish is a perfect weeknight dinner, combining creamy cheese sauce, taco spices, and tender macaroni for an irresistible meal. With customizable toppings like jalapeños, avocado, and tortilla chips, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
1 lb elbow macaroni
1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (drained)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
4 cups milk
1/4 cup cream cheese
1/4 cup sour cream
1/2 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: tortilla chips, jalapeños, cilantro, or diced avocado
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta:
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In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Brown the Meat:
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In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or turkey) until fully browned. Drain excess fat.
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Add Taco Seasoning:
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Stir in taco seasoning and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Cook for 2-3 minutes, mixing well.
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Make the Cheese Sauce:
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In a separate pot, heat milk and cream cheese over medium heat, whisking until the cream cheese melts. Gradually stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
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Combine Ingredients:
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Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir. Mix in the seasoned meat mixture until well combined.
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Serve:
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Spoon Taco Mac and Cheese into bowls. Top with sour cream and chopped green onions. Add optional toppings like crushed tortilla chips, jalapeños, or avocado.
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Notes
For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or beans.
To add spice, include more jalapeños, hot sauce, or a spicier taco seasoning.
If you prefer a creamier sauce, add extra cream cheese or heavy cream.
For a low-carb version, try zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of macaroni.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Comfort Food, Tex-Mex
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6-8 servings
- Calories: Approximately 500 calories
