Taco Macaroni and Cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Taco Macaroni and Cheese is an easy-to-make dish that’s packed with flavor. The cheesy pasta is perfectly complemented by the savory taco-seasoned ground beef, making it the best of both worlds. It’s a one-pot meal, which means minimal cleanup, and you can adjust the level of spice and toppings to suit your taste. Whether you’re a taco lover or a mac and cheese fan (or both!), this dish offers a comforting, satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)

• 12 oz elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape you prefer)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)

• 1 cup milk

• 1 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional toppings: Sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, chopped cilantro, or tortilla chips

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the ground beef: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Drain any excess fat.

3. Sauté the onion and garlic: Add the diced onion to the skillet with the cooked beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.

4. Add the taco seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning and diced tomatoes. Add salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is well combined and heated through.

5. Combine the pasta and sauce: Stir the cooked pasta into the beef mixture, combining it thoroughly. Add the milk and sour cream (if using), stirring until everything is coated in a creamy sauce.

6. Add the cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top and stir until the cheese is melted and everything is creamy and cheesy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little extra milk to loosen it up.

7. Serve: Top with your favorite taco toppings, such as sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, or crushed tortilla chips. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or black beans into the mixture for added flavor and nutrition.

• Spicy version: Increase the spice by adding extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, or fresh jalapeños to the ground beef mixture.

• Use different cheese: You can substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses for a creamier or spicier flavor.

• Use ground turkey or chicken: For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Adjust the seasoning as needed for flavor.

• Make it vegetarian: Use black beans or lentils in place of the ground beef for a hearty, meatless version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk to help loosen the sauce. You can also microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta you like! Penne, fusilli, or rotini are great alternatives to elbow macaroni. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta.

Can I use a different protein instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat work well in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly to ensure the flavors are balanced.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add more heat, you can increase the amount of taco seasoning or add fresh diced jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce. You can also use spicy cheese like pepper jack.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Taco Macaroni and Cheese ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave with a little added milk or broth to keep it creamy.

Can I freeze Taco Macaroni and Cheese?

Yes, you can freeze Taco Macaroni and Cheese for up to 1-2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

Can I make it without sour cream?

Yes, you can omit the sour cream if you prefer. The dish will still be creamy and delicious with just the cheese and milk. For extra creaminess, you can substitute the sour cream with cream cheese or Greek yogurt.

Can I add other toppings?

Yes! You can add any of your favorite taco toppings, such as guacamole, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, salsa, or a drizzle of lime juice to make the dish even more delicious.

Conclusion

Taco Macaroni and Cheese is a fun and delicious dish that combines the best of both worlds: creamy mac and cheese and the bold, zesty flavors of tacos. With its cheesy pasta, seasoned beef, and customizable toppings, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. It’s quick to make, easy to clean up, and perfect for any occasion, from a weeknight dinner to a gathering with friends. Give it a try, and enjoy this comforting twist on two classic favorites!