Easy Taco Mac and Cheese Recipe You'll Love
Taco mac and cheese is a delightful fusion dish. It combines cheesy pasta with taco seasonings and toppings for a comforting, flavorful meal.
Equipment
- The preparation of this recipe requires the following essential kitchen tools:
- Large pot or Dutch oven (for boiling pasta)
- Large skillet (for browning ground beef)
- Large saucepan (for making cheese sauce)
- Colander (for draining pasta)
- Whisk (for making cheese sauce)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning (1 ounce)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, salsa, sliced black olives, chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Macaroni: Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions. Drain well and set aside.
- Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Step 3: Saut Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Step 4: Season with Taco Seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning packet and mix well to coat the ground beef evenly.
- Step 5: Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan or pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, creating a roux.
- Step 6: Thicken the Sauce: Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to whisk until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Step 7: Incorporate Cheese and Seasonings: Reduce the heat to low. Add 3 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Step 8: Combine Everything: Add the cooked macaroni and the seasoned ground beef mixture to the cheese sauce. Stir well to combine.
- Step 9: Garnish and Serve: Transfer the taco mac and cheese to a serving dish or individual bowls. Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and any desired toppings. Serve immediately. Tips & Substitutions: For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce or use a spicier taco seasoning. Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef. For a creamier sauce, use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk. To make it vegetarian, use a plant-based ground meat substitute.
Notes
Variations
The versatility of this dish allows for numerous adaptations:
- Ingredient Swaps: Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based protein substitutes can replace ground beef. Different cheese varieties, such as pepper jack or Colby jack, may be incorporated. For a richer sauce, cream cheese or sour cream can be added.
- Regional Twists: Southwestern flair can be amplified with the addition of roasted corn, black beans, or green chiles. A Tex-Mex version might include pico de gallo and guacamole as toppings. A California twist could feature avocado and a drizzle of lime crema.
- Dietary Adjustments: For a gluten-free version, gluten-free pasta and a cornstarch-based roux can be employed. A dairy-free version can be achieved with plant-based cheeses and milk alternatives. Lower-sodium taco seasoning can be used to reduce sodium content.
Serving Suggestions
This meal is well-suited for a variety of occasions.
- It functions well as a main course for weeknight dinners.
- It can be served at casual gatherings or potlucks.
- It makes for a satisfying lunch option.
- Accompaniments include a side salad, cornbread, or tortilla chips.
Storage Tips
Proper storage ensures optimal freshness and flavor retention:
- Allow to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
- Freezing is not recommended, as the pasta and cheese sauce may undergo texture changes upon thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can this dish be made ahead of time?