Go Back

Taco Mac and Cheese

A creamy, cheesy dish that combines classic mac and cheese with zesty taco flavors for a delicious comfort food experience.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni a staple for the mac and cheese base
  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey for that hearty taco filling
  • 1 packet taco seasoning the secret to that zesty flavor
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend) because more cheese is always better!
  • 1 cup milk to make the sauce creamy
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes canned or fresh for a fresh, juicy element
Garnish and Toppings
  • to taste chopped green onions for flavor and garnish
  • to taste chopped cilantro, shredded lettuce, sour cream for serving (optional)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  3. Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and stir it in with the meat, followed by adding the diced tomatoes and mixing well.
  4. Pour in the milk and bring the mixture to a simmer. Gradually add the shredded cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
  5. Add the cooked macaroni back to the pot, and stir everything together until well coated. Serve hot and garnish with your favorite toppings!

Notes

Don't skimp on the cheese! Using a mix of cheeses or adding cream cheese can enhance the creaminess. Feel free to swap the ground meat for beans or lentils for a vegetarian version. You can also use gluten-free pasta for those with dietary restrictions.