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
Scale
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.
