Beef Taco Macaroni and Cheese (25 Minutes)

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Beef taco mac and cheese is a delightful fusion dish that combines the hearty flavors of a classic taco with the creamy comfort of macaroni and cheese. This dish is ideal for those who love a twist on traditional recipes, offering a unique blend of savory beef, tangy tomatoes, and rich cheese.

It’s an easy-to-make, one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or when you simply crave something satisfying and flavorful. Topped with fresh scallions, this dish not only has great taste but also a pleasing texture and visual appeal.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 2 cups uncooked macaroni
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh scallions, chopped, for topping

Instructions

  1. Brown Beef (5 minutes): In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Sauté Onion and Garlic (3 minutes): Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef, cooking until the onion is translucent.
  3. Add Tomatoes and Seasoning (2 minutes): Stir in the undrained diced tomatoes and taco seasoning. Mix well.
  4. Cook Macaroni (10 minutes): Add the uncooked macaroni and milk to the pot. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook until the macaroni is tender, stirring occasionally.
  5. Add Cheese (3 minutes): Once the macaroni is cooked, remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
  6. Serve with Scallions (2 minutes): Serve the beef taco macaroni and cheese hot, topped with chopped fresh scallions.

Notes

For the best results, use a sharp cheddar cheese for a more pronounced flavor. The taco seasoning adds a kick, so adjust the amount based on your spice preference. If the macaroni and cheese mixture seems too thick, you can add a little more milk to reach the desired consistency. The addition of fresh scallions not only adds a pop of color but also introduces a mild, crunchy element to the dish.

This is a versatile dish that can be easily customized – consider adding bell peppers, black beans, or corn for extra texture and flavor. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 600
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg

Pair this with...

Jalapeño Corn Muffins

Begin by warming your oven and lining a muffin tin with paper liners. In a mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, milk, and an egg. Merge the wet and dry ingredients, mixing just until they become friends. Now, fold in some finely diced jalapeños (adjusting the amount based on your heat preference) and perhaps a handful of grated cheddar cheese for added richness. Spoon this vibrant batter into the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. Into the oven they go! Bake until they rise proudly and sport a golden crown. Let them cool slightly, then dive in.

Black Bean and Corn Salad

Start by draining and rinsing a can of black beans, then combine it with a cup of sweet corn (frozen and thawed works great, or fresh off the cob). Dice up a ripe tomato, a red pepper, and a red onion for some juicy crunch. For that herbal freshness, chop up a handful of cilantro and toss it in. Mix everything in a large bowl and give it a good stir. For dressing, squeeze the juice of one lime, drizzle a bit of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Mix it all up, and voila!

Simple Green Salad

Begin by selecting crisp lettuce leaves, giving them a thorough wash and a gentle pat dry. Tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces and place them as the foundation of your salad. Next, slice ripe tomatoes, their juicy segments promising a burst of sweetness. Add these to the lettuce, their vibrant red contrasting beautifully against the green. For a refreshing crunch, slice a cucumber into thin rounds or half-moons, layering them amongst the other ingredients. For dressing, a light drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice will enhance the salad's natural flavors without overshadowing them. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper and any herbs of your choosing.

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Hi, I'm Alaina! As a busy mom of two, I'm tired of always wondering "what's for dinner?" That's why I created this website; to share easy and tasty recipe ideas the whole family will love. If you're not subscribed yet, join 47,098 others here - thanks for stopping by!