Description
This Easy Taco Mac and Cheese is a comforting one-pan meal combining creamy Cheddar macaroni with flavorful taco-seasoned ground beef. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it features tender elbow macaroni tossed in a cheesy, slightly spicy sauce with fresh tomatoes and green onions for added freshness.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz. elbow macaroni
Beef Mixture
- 1.3 lbs. lean ground beef
- 2 Tbsp. taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1/2 cup salsa
Cheese Sauce
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
Garnish
- 1 large tomato, chopped
- 2 green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Brown the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and spread it evenly in the pan. Let it cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes to brown the underside. Flip and stir the beef, then continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until it is fully cooked through, another 3-4 minutes.
- Add Seasonings and Simmer: Stir in the taco seasoning, mixing well to coat the beef. Pour in the beef broth or water and stir to combine. Add the salsa, stir again, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to let the flavors meld.
- Create the Cheese Sauce: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the heavy cream, then add the shredded Cheddar cheese gradually, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth, about 1 minute.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked and drained macaroni to the skillet and stir well to fully coat the pasta with the cheesy taco beef sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Fold in the chopped tomato and green onions, then serve the dish hot for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Adjust the amount of taco seasoning depending on your preferred spice level.
- For a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of beef broth or allow the sauce to simmer slightly longer.
- This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: taco mac and cheese, ground beef recipe, easy dinner, cheesy pasta, weeknight meal
