Description
A fusion of two beloved comfort foods, this Taco Mac and Cheese combines the flavors of tacos with the creaminess of mac and cheese. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
Taco Seasoning Mix:
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
- 1/4 cup water
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sliced jalapeños (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Taco Meat: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and onion; cook until beef is browned and onion is softened. Stir in garlic, taco seasoning, and water; simmer for 2 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Add diced tomatoes, corn, and black beans to the skillet. Reduce heat, then add cooked pasta, cheddar cheese, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Stir until cheese is melted and pasta is well coated.
- Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with cilantro and jalapeños if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- For a baked version, transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes until bubbly.
- This dish also works great with pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheese for extra spice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Casserole, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop (optional Baking)
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 820 mg
- Fat: 21 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 47 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 27 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
