Description
Taco Macaroni and Cheese is the perfect fusion of two comfort food favorites: cheesy macaroni and flavorful tacos. This dish combines creamy, cheesy pasta with seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, and taco spices for a fun, flavorful twist on classic macaroni and cheese.
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
Instructions
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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Serve: Top with your favorite taco toppings, such as sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, or crushed tortilla chips. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the skillet or as a topping.
- For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef and use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream.
- If you prefer more cheese, add extra mozzarella or pepper jack for a creamier, cheesier texture.
- For added crunch, serve with crispy fried onions or bacon bits as a topping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American/Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 60mg