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Taco Mac and Cheese Recipe

Taco Mac and Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.6 from 14 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Tex-Mex
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Description

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food mash-up with this Taco Mac and Cheese recipe. Creamy, cheesy pasta loaded with seasoned ground beef and Tex-Mex flavors, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.


Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade)
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chiles (drained)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish:

  • Chopped green onions and cilantro (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Macaroni: Boil the macaroni until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Meat Mixture: Brown the ground beef in a skillet with olive oil. Add taco seasoning and water, simmer until thickened.
  3. Add Cheese and Mix-Ins: Stir in diced tomatoes, cream cheese, and milk. Add cooked pasta, cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until melted.
  4. Season and Serve: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with green onions or cilantro before serving.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian option, use black beans or lentils instead of beef.
  • Enhance with cooked corn or bell peppers for added flavor.