If you’re dreaming of the ultimate comfort food mashup, Taco Mac and Cheese will be your new obsession. Creamy, cheesy pasta meets bold taco flavors and just a hint of heat in a dish that’s loaded with seasoned ground beef, melty cheddar, zesty tomatoes, and a Tex-Mex twist. You get everything you love about a cozy, bubbling mac and cheese, plus the spices and fun of taco night, all scooped into one bowl. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or the centerpiece of a casual get-together, this is the kind of meal that’s pure happiness with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For a one-pot wonder like Taco Mac and Cheese, every ingredient is chosen for a reason: to deliver that signature flavor, keep things creamy, or add a pop of freshness at the end. Here’s what you need and why you’ll love it.
- Elbow macaroni (12 oz): Classic, bite-sized pasta soaks up all the creamy cheese sauce and taco goodness.
- Ground beef (1 lb): Rich, hearty flavor forms the savory base—feel free to swap for turkey or a plant-based alternative.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Helps sauté the onion for a lovely flavor foundation.
- Small onion, diced (1): Adds subtle sweetness and depth once it’s softened.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): A touch of garlicky punch sharpens all the flavors.
- Taco seasoning (1 oz packet): Delivers all those classic taco spices in one easy packet.
- Water (½ cup): Helps the seasoning coat the beef and blend into the sauce.
- Cheddar cheese, shredded (2 cups): Sharp and melty for essential mac and cheese vibes.
- Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (1 cup): Buttery and gooey for that next-level creaminess.
- Milk (1 cup): Loosens the cheese, making it perfectly saucy rather than clumpy.
- Sour cream (½ cup): Lends creamy richness and just a touch of tang.
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained (10 oz can): Adds pops of color, gentle heat, and a little juiciness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Because every cheesy pasta needs a touch of seasoning.
- Chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños (optional): For a colorful, zesty finish at the table.
How to Make Taco Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil and toss in the elbow macaroni. Cook it just until al dente—aiming for noodles that are tender but still have a little bite. Drain and set them aside. Don’t overcook the pasta; it’ll simmer in that luscious sauce soon, soaking up even more Tex-Mex flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Set a large skillet over medium heat, swirl in the olive oil, and add your diced onion. Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until it softens and smells sweet. Stir in the minced garlic for that last 30 seconds, just long enough to get fragrant but not burnt.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Time to bring the hearty goodness! Add the ground beef to the skillet with your sauteed onions and garlic. Break it up as it cooks, making sure every bit browns evenly. Once there’s no pink left, carefully drain off any extra fat. This step will keep your Taco Mac and Cheese rich but never greasy.
Step 4: Add Taco Seasoning
Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and pour in the water. Stir everything together, scraping up those tasty bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and the beef to become deliciously saucy.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Reduce the heat to low, then stir the cooked macaroni right into your skillet of taco beef. Add the drained diced tomatoes with green chilies, milk, sour cream, shredded cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until all the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and thick—pure Taco Mac and Cheese magic!
Step 6: Season and Serve
Give it all a taste, then add a little salt and pepper as needed. Spoon the cheesy pasta into bowls while it’s piping hot. Top with a handful of chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños if you’re feeling fancy or want some extra color (and heat).
How to Serve Taco Mac and Cheese
Garnishes
A few finishing touches really set off the flavors of Taco Mac and Cheese. Chopped cilantro and fresh jalapeños are classics, but you could also add diced avocado, a dollop of extra sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips for crunch. Let everyone add their favorites at the table for a custom meal.
Side Dishes
This dish is more than satisfying on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, a scoop of guacamole, or even a side of roasted corn. If you’re hosting friends, set out little bowls of salsa or fresh veggies to nibble alongside your cheesy main.
Creative Ways to Present
Take Taco Mac and Cheese to the next level by serving it in baked tortilla cups for a party-ready appetizer, or spoon it into individual ramekins and broil with extra cheese on top for a bubbling, golden crust. Turn leftovers into a Tex-Mex casserole by folding in black beans and topping with more cheese before baking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got some Taco Mac and Cheese left over? Spoon it into an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. It’ll keep well for up to three days, staying creamy if you add a splash of milk when you reheat it. This is one of those rare dishes that’s just as comforting the second time around.
Freezing
Taco Mac and Cheese can be frozen for busy nights ahead. Let it cool completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and store for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results—creamy, cheesy goodness is just a few minutes away.
Reheating
For the creamiest reheated Taco Mac and Cheese, use the stovetop over low heat, stirring often and adding a splash of milk or a spoonful of sour cream to loosen the sauce. The microwave works for single portions, too—just stir well and heat in short bursts to avoid overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! Elbow macaroni is traditional here, but you can swap it for shell pasta, rotini, or even penne if that’s what you have on hand. The key is to use a shape that holds onto the creamy sauce.
How can I make Taco Mac and Cheese vegetarian?
Just trade the ground beef for your favorite plant-based ground meat or even cooked lentils. You can also toss in black beans or corn for extra protein and texture. The rest of the flavors stay perfectly Tex-Mex.
Is this recipe spicy?
As written, Taco Mac and Cheese has a gentle kick thanks to the green chilies, but you can easily dial it up or down. Skip the jalapeños or use mild taco seasoning if you prefer it mild, or add hot sauce for more heat lovers at the table.
Can I make this recipe ahead for a party?
Yes! Prep Taco Mac and Cheese a day in advance and reheat gently on the stove before serving. Add a splash of milk if it seems thick and toss in your garnishes right before guests arrive for a fresh finish.
What cheeses can I substitute?
The cheddar and Monterey Jack combo is classic, but feel free to use all cheddar, Colby Jack, or even pepper Jack for more spice. Just be sure to choose cheeses that melt smoothly for the creamiest result.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a meal that’s the definition of comfort food, Taco Mac and Cheese is it! Creamy, bold, and loaded with Tex-Mex flair, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser (or a cozy night-in treat just for you). Give it a try and share with friends—don’t be surprised if you never have leftovers!
Print
Taco Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and comforting fusion of tacos and macaroni and cheese, this Taco Mac and Cheese is a family-friendly meal that combines pasta, seasoned ground beef, cheeses, and Tex-Mex flavors.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
Taco Meat:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning
- ½ cup water
Cheese Sauce:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup sour cream
Additional:
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (drained)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Taco Meat: In a skillet, cook onion, garlic, and ground beef until browned. Add taco seasoning and water, simmer briefly.
- Combine Ingredients: Add cooked pasta, diced tomatoes, milk, sour cream, cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Top with cilantro and jalapeños if desired.
Notes
- Consider using ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter version.
- Enhance with black beans or corn for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
