Taco Mac and Cheese
Enjoy this delicious fusion of creamy mac and cheese with flavorful taco spices, making it the perfect weeknight meal for the whole family.
Ingredients
Pasta and Meat
- 1 pound elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta)
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
Taco Seasoning and Beans
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
Cheese and Dairy
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Because cheese, duh!
- 1 cup milk
Seasoning
- to taste Salt and pepper
Optional Toppings
- to taste Sour cream
- to taste chopped cilantro
- to taste avocado
Instructions
Cooking Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add your macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
Browning Meat
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef (or turkey). Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in taco seasoning and diced tomatoes with green chilies, cooking for another 2-3 minutes. Add the drained beans and mix well.
Combining Ingredients
- In the skillet, combine the cooked pasta with the meat mixture. Pour in the milk and fold in the cheese until melted and gooey.
- If too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach desired creaminess. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
- Serve the Taco Mac and Cheese warm, adding any optional toppings you desire.
Notes
Don’t panic if the sauce looks a little lumpy—it’s all part of the magic! A good stir will work wonders. For a twist, try adding different beans, corn, or jalapeños for added spice.