Description
This Easy Creamy Taco Mac recipe is a delicious Tex-Mex twist on classic mac and cheese. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this one-pot meal is perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 oz elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
Meat Mixture:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade)
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (drained)
- ½ cup salsa
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- ½ cup milk
- 4 oz cream cheese (cubed)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare Meat Mixture: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground meat and onion, cooking until browned. Stir in garlic and taco seasoning, then cook for another 30 seconds.
- Combine Ingredients: Add diced tomatoes with green chilies, salsa, broth, and milk. Bring to a simmer, then stir in the cream cheese until melted and smooth. Reduce heat to low, add the cooked pasta, and stir to combine.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle in shredded cheddar and stir until fully melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with chopped cilantro or green onions if desired.
Notes
- Add black beans, corn, or bell peppers for more texture and nutrition.
- For a spicier kick, use hot salsa or add a pinch of cayenne.
- Leftovers reheat well the next day.
