Description
This Taco Macaroni and Cheese is a deliciously creamy and cheesy pasta dish combined with seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, and classic taco spices. Perfect as a comforting one-pot meal, it blends the flavors of Mexican cuisine with a hearty American favorite, making it ideal for busy weeknights and family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) elbow macaroni
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Toppings
- Fresh cilantro
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced jalapeños
- Sour cream
- Crushed tortilla chips
Instructions
- Cook the Beef and Onion: Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking for 6–8 minutes while breaking up the beef until browned and cooked through.
- Drain Excess Fat: If there is excess grease, carefully drain it to reduce fat content and avoid soggy texture.
- Add Garlic and Taco Seasoning: Stir in minced garlic and taco seasoning, cooking for about 30 seconds to release their flavors into the beef.
- Add Liquids and Tomatoes: Mix in diced tomatoes, beef broth, and milk, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Add Macaroni and Simmer: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 10–12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking until the pasta is tender.
- Incorporate Cheeses: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until they melt completely, creating a creamy sauce.
- Season: Season the dish with salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
- Add Toppings and Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, sour cream, and crushed tortilla chips for added texture and flavor. Serve the taco macaroni and cheese warm.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef for a lighter option.
- Adding black beans or corn can add extra texture and flavor to the dish.
- Use your preferred taco seasoning mix or create a homemade blend for customization.
- If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of milk before serving to loosen the consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
