If you’re craving the comforting vibes of classic mac and cheese but want to dial up the fun with bold, Tex-Mex flair, Taco Macaroni and Cheese is about to become your new weeknight go-to. This ooey, gooey pasta dish is packed with tender macaroni, savory ground beef, zesty taco spices, vibrant veggies, and a hearty blanket of melted cheese. It’s the kind of meal that instantly brings everyone to the table, satisfying picky eaters and spice lovers alike. Whether you’re feeding a bustling family or whipping up a cozy supper for two, Taco Macaroni and Cheese makes dinner feel like a celebration—one forkful at a time.

Taco Macaroni and Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This meal comes together with simple ingredients you likely have on hand, but each is essential for creating maximum flavor, irresistible texture, and a colorful plate. Don’t skip any—the magic of Taco Macaroni and Cheese is in these details.

Elbow macaroni: Classic macaroni holds onto all that rich, cheesy goodness and the taco-spiced meat with every bite.
Ground beef: Go for lean ground beef for big flavor without too much grease; ground turkey also works if you’re looking for a lighter twist.
Taco seasoning: A packet or homemade blend delivers that bold, familiar taco flavor—think chili, cumin, paprika, and a hint of garlic.
Onion: Diced onion adds sweetness and just the right amount of savory edge to the skillet.
Garlic: A couple of cloves, finely minced, provides aromatic undertones that round out the sauce.
Diced tomatoes (with green chiles): These bring tang and a little kick, combining perfectly with the cheesy base.
Corn: Sweet pops of corn add color and balance all that spice with just the right touch.
Milk: Helps create a creamy sauce, making every bite silky and smooth.
Cheddar cheese: Shredded cheddar melts into irresistible pockets throughout the pasta—it’s the heart of any good mac and cheese.
Monterey Jack cheese: Brings extra creaminess and a gooey pull, plus it blends beautifully with the cheddar.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out every pop of flavor.
Optional toppings: Diced avocado, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream for finishing flair.

How to Make Taco Macaroni and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the elbow macaroni, and cook until just al dente according to package directions. Don’t overcook—the pasta will finish in the cheesy sauce, soaking up even more flavor. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Meanwhile, in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven set over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion together until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are soft. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat as it browns, ensuring you get those perfect little crumbles. Drain off excess grease if needed.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Taco Seasoning

Add the minced garlic to the pan, followed by the taco seasoning. Stir well, letting the garlic get fragrant and toasting the spices for about a minute. This step layers in those unmistakable taco aromas that make Taco Macaroni and Cheese so addictive.

Step 4: Stir in Veggies and Tomatoes

Pour in the diced tomatoes with green chiles and the corn, stirring to combine. Allow everything to simmer together for a few minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly. The veggies not only add color but also burst with flavor in each bite.

Step 5: Make it Cheesy

Lower the heat and stir in the milk, then add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese by the handful. Keep stirring until everything melts into a creamy, luscious sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked macaroni to your pan of cheesy taco goodness, gently folding everything together until the pasta is fully coated. Let it bubble for a minute or two if you love those crisp bits at the edges. Your Taco Macaroni and Cheese is now ready to ladle into big bowls!

How to Serve Taco Macaroni and Cheese

Garnishes

For the ultimate finishing touch, pile on your favorite garnishes. A scattering of fresh cilantro, a few slices of avocado, or extra jalapeño rings give the dish a burst of color and a fresh, vibrant pop. A dollop of sour cream or even a sprinkle of crumbled tortilla chips can make Taco Macaroni and Cheese sing with texture and flavor.

Side Dishes

This recipe is a star all on its own, but if you’re feeding a crowd or love a bit of variety, a crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette pairs beautifully. You can also serve it with warm cornbread or a cooling cucumber salad, which balances the spice and complements the cheesy pasta.

Creative Ways to Present

Have fun changing up your presentation! Spoon Taco Macaroni and Cheese into individual ramekins and broil for a few minutes to get a bubbly, golden cheese crust. Or serve it in baked tortilla bowls for a handheld, taco-inspired twist that’ll thrill both kids and adults.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any extra Taco Macaroni and Cheese to an airtight container as soon as it’s cooled. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it a perfect make-ahead option for busy weeknights or quick office lunches. Just be sure to store garnishes separately to maintain their freshness.

Freezing

This dish freezes surprisingly well! Portion cooled Taco Macaroni and Cheese into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results—the cheesy texture holds up beautifully with this method.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if it’s thickened up. For larger amounts, a covered baking dish in the oven at 350°F works perfectly. Stir halfway through to keep the cheese evenly melted and creamy.

FAQs

Can I use different pasta shapes?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic for Taco Macaroni and Cheese, shells, rotini, or penne work just as well—anything that catches that cheesy, meaty goodness is a winner.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

You can easily skip the meat and swap in black beans, pinto beans, or even a meatless crumble for a delicious vegetarian version of Taco Macaroni and Cheese. Just amp up the taco seasoning for extra oomph.

Can I make this spicier?

If you like things hot, add extra diced jalapeños to the skillet or use a spicy taco seasoning blend. A splash of hot sauce stirred in with the cheese can also kick things up a notch.

What cheese works best if I don’t have cheddar or Monterey Jack?

Other good melting cheeses like Colby, Pepper Jack, or even a Mexican cheese blend make terrific substitutes, giving you flexibility without sacrificing that creamy, melty goodness central to Taco Macaroni and Cheese.

How can I make it healthier?

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken, use whole wheat macaroni, and mix in extra veggies like diced bell peppers or zucchini. Reduced-fat cheese and milk also work if you’re looking to lighten it up while still savoring every bite.

Final Thoughts

This is the kind of dinner guaranteed to make your table the happiest spot in the house. Taco Macaroni and Cheese is as fun to make as it is to eat, and it’s sure to earn a spot in your regular meal rotation. Give it a go—you’ll love watching everyone come back for seconds!