Description
This Taco Mac and Cheese recipe combines the comforting creaminess of classic mac and cheese with bold, zesty taco flavors. Ground beef seasoned with taco spices is mixed with elbow macaroni and melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, then enriched with sour cream and milk for a rich, creamy texture. Optional toppings like diced tomatoes, green onions, and cilantro add freshness and color, making this dish a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both hearty and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Liquids
- 1 cup water
Optional Toppings
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Macaroni: Prepare the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions, typically boiling in salted water until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later use.
- Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until it is fully browned and no longer pink.
- Add Seasoning : Drain any excess grease from the cooked beef. Stir in the taco seasoning packet along with 1 cup of water. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes so the seasoning can thicken and infuse the meat.
- Combine Pasta and Beef: Add the cooked elbow macaroni into the skillet with the seasoned beef. Stir well to combine the pasta evenly with the taco-flavored beef mixture.
- Melt Cheese: Lower the heat to low and add both shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture becomes creamy.
- Add Creaminess: Mix in the sour cream and milk, stirring until you achieve a smooth, creamy texture. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the flavors as desired.
- Add Toppings and Serve: If using, sprinkle diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro over the top. Serve your Taco Mac and Cheese hot to enjoy the perfect blend of cheesy and savory taco flavors.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños along with the taco seasoning.
- Using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella cheese melts nicely and gives a good balance of flavor and creaminess.
- This dish can be prepared in advance; just reheat gently on the stovetop adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creamy texture.
- To make it gluten-free, substitute elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta.
- Optional toppings add freshness and a burst of color, but you can omit or customize these based on preference.
