Description
Taco Macaroni & Cheese is the ultimate fusion of comfort food and Mexican flavor. This creamy, cheesy pasta dish is packed with seasoned beef and bold taco spices, perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner or family meal. Ideal for those craving an easy, one-pot cheesy dinner with a Tex-Mex twist.
Ingredients
2 cups elbow macaroni
1 pound ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
4 ounces cream cheese
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add diced onion and garlic to the beef and cook until fragrant. Stir in taco seasoning and tomato paste until evenly combined.
4. Pour in the milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Add cream cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
5. Gradually mix in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the sauce is thick and creamy.
6. Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir until fully coated. Simmer for a few more minutes until well combined.
7. Serve hot with your favorite taco toppings or store in the fridge for later.
Notes
Use sharp cheddar for a bolder cheese flavor.
Add jalapeños or hot sauce if you like heat.
Topping with crushed tortilla chips adds a fun crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 530
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 95mg