Description
This Quick and Easy Taco Mac and Cheese combines creamy elbow macaroni with seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, and classic taco flavors including salsa and taco seasoning. It’s a comforting one-pot stovetop meal perfect for a flavorful and hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
Meat and Seasonings
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 oz)
Liquids and Cheese
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cream or milk
Optional Garnish
- Chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
- Brown Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until fully browned, about 6-8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat from the pan.
- Add Seasoning and Liquids: Stir in the taco seasoning packet, then add beef broth and salsa to the browned beef. Mix well and bring to a simmer for 3-5 minutes to blend flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in cream or milk and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta mixture. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat. Optionally, garnish with chopped cilantro for freshness and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Add black beans or corn to the skillet along with the beef mixture for extra texture and flavor.
- Top servings with sour cream or diced avocado for added creaminess.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
