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Taco Macaroni and Cheese


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  • Author: Ava
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

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. 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.

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. Serve: Top with your favorite taco toppings, such as sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, or crushed tortilla chips. Serve immediately.

Notes

  1. For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the skillet or as a topping.
  2. For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef and use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream.
  3. If you prefer more cheese, add extra mozzarella or pepper jack for a creamier, cheesier texture.
  4. 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