Teresa's Recipes
Taco Mac and Cheese
Indulge in the irresistible fusion of flavors with Taco Mac and Cheese, where the comforting creaminess of macaroni and cheese meets the bold zest of taco seasoning. This dish is a celebration of culinary cultures, combining hearty elbow macaroni with perfectly seasoned ground beef, enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce. Topped with fresh tomatoes and green onions, each bite is a delightful adventure for your taste buds. Perfect for busy weeknights or lively gatherings, Taco Mac and Cheese is not just a meal; it's a comforting embrace that brings everyone to the table. Originating from the heart of American comfort food, this recipe offers a modern twist on traditional mac and cheese, making it a favorite for both kids and adults alike!
Ingredients
- 2 cups Elbow macaroni
- 1 pound Ground beef
- 1 packet (about 1 ounce) Taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup Water
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
- 2 cups Milk
- 2 cups Cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 cup Green onions, chopped
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 6
- Dish Type: Main Course
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Calories: 500
- Fat: 25g
- Carbs: 50g
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Sugar: 4g
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning and water. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- In a separate medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously to create a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until it turns lightly golden.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle simmer, about 3-5 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth, creating a rich cheese sauce.
- In a large pot, combine the cooked macaroni, seasoned taco meat, and cheese sauce. Stir thoroughly until everything is well mixed and coated in the cheesy goodness.
- Serve the Taco Mac and Cheese hot, garnished with fresh diced tomatoes and chopped green onions for a vibrant pop of color and freshness.
Tips
- For an extra kick, add some diced jalapeños to the taco meat while cooking.
- Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- To make it a complete meal, consider adding black beans or corn to the mix.
- For a creamier texture, add an extra splash of milk to the cheese sauce.