If you’re craving a dish that combines the creamy comfort of macaroni and cheese with the bold, zesty flavors of a taco night, you’re in for a treat with this Taco Mac and Cheese Recipe. It’s that perfect blend of cheesy, savory goodness and a little southwestern kick, creating a meal that feels like a warm hug on the plate. Whether it’s for a family dinner or an easy weeknight meal, this recipe brings together simple ingredients in a way that’s absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Taco Mac and Cheese Recipe plays a starring role, making the dish flavorful, creamy, and exciting. From the tender elbow macaroni to the robust taco-seasoned ground beef, and the melty mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, every component is essential to getting that perfect balance between cheesy richness and taco zest.
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape that holds onto all that cheesy sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the ground beef evenly and adds a mild fruity note.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides hearty, savory richness and the taco protein base everyone loves.
- 1 packet taco seasoning: Brings the signature southwestern spices to infuse the beef with bold flavor.
- ½ cup water: Helps to create a thick sauce when combined with the taco seasoning for juiciness.
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies (drained): Adds a subtle tang and spicy kick without overwhelming the dish.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: The base for the creamy cheese sauce with a smooth finish.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the cheese sauce for that perfect velvety texture.
- 1 ½ cups milk: Creates a luscious creamy sauce to coat the macaroni and beef perfectly.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, giving the dish its signature cheesy punch.
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Adds a creamy, mild flavor that balances the cheddar beautifully.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings to elevate all the flavors harmoniously.
- Chopped cilantro (optional for garnish): Fresh herbaceous brightness that adds a pop of color and flavor.
How to Make Taco Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Start by boiling the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until it’s perfectly tender but still has a little bite. Drain it well and set it aside because it’s the base that will soak up all those delicious flavors later.
Step 2: Prepare the Taco-Spiced Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook it until it browns nicely, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks to ensure even texture. When the beef is fully browned, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from feeling greasy. Stir in the taco seasoning and water, then let it simmer for a couple of minutes so the seasoning really clings to the beef. Finally, fold in the drained diced tomatoes with green chilies, stirring just until combined.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
While the beef simmers, melt the butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook it for about one minute to cook out the raw flour taste. Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Keep whisking and cooking until the sauce thickens into a silky, creamy texture – this usually takes 3 to 5 minutes. Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until fully melted and smooth.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Now for the best part: fold the cooked macaroni and the savory beef mixture into the cheese sauce. Give everything a good stir so every little piece is coated in cheesy, spiced goodness. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed to bring all the flavors together.
How to Serve Taco Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of chopped cilantro on top adds a fresh, herbal brightness that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the cheese and beef. You could also add a handful of crushed tortilla chips for a fun crunchy texture that echoes classic taco toppings.
Side Dishes
To complement the bold flavors, serve your Taco Mac and Cheese Recipe alongside a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables for balance. Guacamole and pico de gallo can also provide fresh, cooling sides that play well with the spicy, cheesy heartiness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleaser, bake the mixed macaroni and cheese in a casserole dish topped with extra cheese and crushed tortilla chips, then broil for a couple of minutes until bubbly and golden. You could even serve it in mini skillets for individual portions, perfect for parties or family-style meals where everyone can dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Taco Mac and Cheese Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be sure to cool it completely before storing to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish for up to two months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and leave some space on top for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to bring back that creamy texture without drying out. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce and keep it luscious.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative that works wonderfully with the taco seasoning and cheese sauce, keeping the dish flavorful but lighter.
How spicy is this recipe?
The recipe has a mild to moderate spice level thanks to the taco seasoning and green chilies. You can easily ramp up the heat by adding cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to suit your taste.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap out the ground beef for sautéed beans or a plant-based meat substitute, and you’ll still get plenty of hearty flavor with the same creamy, cheesy appeal.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely. The flavors are familiar enough to please young palates, and the cheese sauce is creamy and comforting. You can always reduce the spice level or omit the chilies to suit younger eaters.
What’s the best cheese combination for this dish?
Cheddar and Monterey Jack are a winning combo for this Taco Mac and Cheese Recipe, offering sharpness and creaminess. Feel free to experiment with other melty cheeses like Colby or Pepper Jack for a twist.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Taco Mac and Cheese Recipe enough for anyone looking to shake up their comfort food routine with something fun, flavorful, and downright addictive. It’s the kind of dish that brings smiles to the table and keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Give it a try—you might just find your new weeknight favorite!
Print
Taco Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Description
Taco Mac and Cheese is a flavorful fusion dish combining the creamy comfort of classic mac and cheese with the bold, zesty flavors of taco-seasoned ground beef and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Perfect for a quick, hearty weeknight dinner, this recipe brings together tender elbow macaroni, a rich cheese sauce, and spiced beef in one satisfying skillet meal, garnished with fresh cilantro for a bright finish.
Ingredients
Pasta and Beef
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- ½ cup water
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Seasoning and Garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Prepare the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Brown the ground beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Simmer with taco seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning packet and ½ cup water into the browned beef. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. Then add the drained diced tomatoes with green chilies and stir to combine thoroughly.
- Prepare the cheese sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously. Cook the mixture, stirring often, until it thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Incorporate the cheeses: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until fully melted and smooth.
- Combine macaroni and beef with cheese sauce: Add the cooked macaroni and taco-seasoned beef mixture into the cheese sauce. Stir everything together thoroughly to ensure even coating and flavor distribution.
- Season and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired. Serve the Taco Mac and Cheese warm, garnished with chopped cilantro if using.
Notes
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein alternative.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for extra spice.
- Top with crushed tortilla chips to add a crunchy texture contrast.
