Taco Macaroni and Cheese

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Here’s a flavorful recipe for Taco Macaroni and Cheese—a comforting, cheesy, and slightly spicy dish that combines the best of macaroni and cheese with the bold flavors of tacos!

Taco Macaroni and Cheese

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape you prefer)
  • 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter version)
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot, depending on preference)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup milk (more if needed for creaminess)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional toppings: chopped green onions, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or crumbled tortilla chips

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta:
    • Cook the macaroni according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the ground beef:
    • In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
    • Stir in the taco seasoning and water, and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and thicken.
  3. Combine the salsa and cheese:
    • Stir in the salsa, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper to the beef mixture.
    • Lower the heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and smooth.
  4. Add the macaroni:
    • Add the drained macaroni to the skillet and mix well until the pasta is evenly coated in the cheesy taco sauce.
  5. Make it creamy:
    • Stir in the sour cream and milk to make the dish extra creamy. Add more milk if you prefer a thinner consistency.
  6. Serve:
    • Once everything is combined and heated through, taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more taco seasoning if needed.
    • Serve with optional toppings like chopped green onions, cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or crumbled tortilla chips for added crunch and flavor.

Optional Variations:

  • Add vegetables: Stir in some corn, black beans, or diced bell peppers to make it heartier.
  • Extra spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder for more heat.
  • Cheese blend: Use a mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and pepper jack cheese for added flavor and creaminess.

This Taco Macaroni and Cheese brings together the rich creaminess of mac and cheese with the zesty flavors of tacos, making it a fun and filling dish for taco and cheese lovers alike!

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