taco macaroni and cheese recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best taco macaroni and cheese recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite taco macaroni and cheese recipe. This dish is a staple in our household, and I’m sure it will become one in yours too.

It’s a creative twist on the classic macaroni and cheese recipe, adding a Mexican flair with seasoned ground beef, diced tomatoes, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top. The first time I made this recipe for my family, they were skeptical at first, but after one bite, they were hooked.

Now, it’s a regular in our dinner rotation, and I love serving it to friends and family who always ask for the recipe. I’ve found that this dish is perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special holiday meal.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized to your taste preferences.

My kids love helping me in the kitchen by adding their favorite toppings, making this recipe a fun and interactive experience for all ages.

Taco Macaroni and Cheese

4.7 from 641 votes

A fusion of two comfort food classics, this taco macaroni and cheese combines creamy, cheesy pasta with seasoned ground beef and zesty taco flavors. It is a quick, one-pot meal that is perfect for busy weeknights and loved by both kids and adults.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 480 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta and Meat

8 oz elbow macaroni
1 lb ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning mix
1/2 cup water

For the Cheese Sauce

2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

For Topping (optional)

1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/4 cup diced tomatoes

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
4In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef.
5Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it is browned and no longer pink.
6Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
7Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the taco seasoning mix and water.
8Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the beef.
9Remove the skillet from the heat.
10In the same large pot used for pasta, melt the butter over medium heat.
11Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the mixture is bubbly and golden.
12Gradually whisk in the milk and continue cooking for 3 to 4 minutes, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
13Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
14Mix in the sour cream, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
15The sauce should be creamy and slightly thick.
16Add the cooked macaroni and the seasoned ground beef to the cheese sauce.
17Stir gently over low heat for 2 to 3 minutes until everything is heated through and evenly coated.
18If desired, top with crushed tortilla chips, cilantro, and diced tomatoes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Large skillet
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 480 kcal🧈Total Fat: 24g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 820mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For a spicier version, use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar. You can also add black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor.

This taco macaroni and cheese recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special holiday meal.

It’s easy to customize to your taste preferences and is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is that it’s so versatile – you can serve it as a main course or as a side dish alongside your favorite entrees.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Taco Macaroni and Cheese

Q1: What type of pasta is best for this recipe?

For this recipe, I recommend using a high-quality elbow macaroni that holds onto the cheesy sauce well. You can also use other types of pasta like shells or rotini if you prefer.

Q2: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer. Just cook it until it’s browned and then proceed with the rest of the recipe as instructed.

Q3: Do I need to use store-bought taco seasoning or can I make my own?

You can definitely make your own taco seasoning using chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and salt. Simply mix these spices together and add them to the ground beef for that authentic flavor.

Q4: Can I make this recipe in advance and refrigerate or freeze it?

Sure thing! You can prepare the macaroni and cheese mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it according to the instructions.

Q5: How do I reheat leftover taco macaroni and cheese?

To reheat leftover taco macaroni and cheese, place it in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

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