Taco Macaroni and Cheese

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Are you craving a fun twist on classic mac and cheese? Taco macaroni and cheese combines two favorite comfort foods into one tasty dish. This easy 30-minute meal mixes tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, and gooey cheese for a true fiesta of flavors.

You’ll love how simple it is to whip up this crowd-pleasing dinner. With just a few basic ingredients like pasta, ground beef, taco seasoning, and cheese, you can create a meal the whole family will enjoy. Add your favorite taco toppings like avocado or sour cream to make it your own.

Exact Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make this tasty taco macaroni and cheese:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (1 ounce) packet taco seasoning
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 1⁄2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

For extra flavor and crunch, you can add these optional toppings:

• Green onions
• Diced avocado
• Fresh cilantro
• Crushed tortilla chips
• Sour cream
• Hot sauce

With these ingredients, you’ll create a cheesy, beefy, and zesty dish that’s sure to please your taste buds!

Instructions

Start by cooking the macaroni in salted water until it’s al dente. Drain and set it aside.

Next, brown the ground beef in a skillet. Drain excess fat, then add diced onion and cook until soft. Toss in minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Sprinkle taco seasoning over the meat mixture and stir well. Add diced tomatoes with their juices and let it simmer for a few minutes.

Now it’s time to make the cheese sauce. Melt butter in a pot, then whisk in flour until golden. Slowly pour in milk and cream, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens.

Add both cheeses to the sauce and stir until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine the cooked macaroni, taco meat, and cheese sauce in the large pot. Mix everything together well.

If you want to bake it, transfer the mixture to a greased dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.

Finish your taco mac and cheese with your favorite toppings like green onions, avocado, or crushed tortilla chips. Enjoy your tasty meal!

Possible Substitutes List & Recipe Variations

You can easily change up this taco mac and cheese recipe to suit your tastes. Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. Vegetarians can swap in crumbled tofu or plant-based meat substitutes.

For the pasta, any short shape works well. Try rotini, penne, or shells if you don’t have elbow macaroni on hand.

Cheese options are flexible too. Here are some tasty alternatives:

• Pepper Jack for extra spice
• Colby for a milder flavor
• Mexican cheese blend for convenience

Want to make it healthier? Use whole wheat pasta and low-fat milk and cheese. For a creamy dairy-free version, try cashew milk and vegan cheese.

Spice it up by adding a can of drained black beans or corn. You could also mix in some diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra veggies and heat.

For busy nights, use a packet of taco seasoning instead of making your own. Or go all out and use your favorite homemade blend for a personalized touch.

Tips, Tricks & Storing

Make your taco mac and cheese even better with these tips:

• Cook the pasta just until al dente. It will keep cooking in the sauce.

• Grate your own cheese for the best melting. Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents.

• Add a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños for extra kick.

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Put it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

When reheating, add a splash of milk to keep it creamy. Warm it in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each.

You can freeze taco mac and cheese too! Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Try these fun variations:

• Use ground turkey instead of beef
• Add black beans for extra protein
• Top with crushed Doritos for crunch

Get the kids involved by letting them choose and sprinkle on their favorite toppings. It’s a great way to make dinner fun!