Description
Taco Macaroni & Cheese is the ultimate one-skillet comfort meal that fuses creamy pasta with all the flavor of tacos. Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a hungry crowd—this dish brings bold seasoning, gooey cheese, and a whole lot of satisfaction in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
2 cups elbow macaroni (dry)
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
½ cup water
½ cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with onion and garlic until browned. Drain excess grease.
2. Stir in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with juices, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
3. Add dry macaroni, milk, and water to the skillet. Stir and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
5. Turn off heat, stir in cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy.
6. Garnish and serve hot with optional toppings like sour cream, tomatoes, or green onions.
Notes
Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother melt—it prevents grittiness from pre-shredded options.
Add more milk when reheating to restore creaminess.
Customize toppings with jalapeños, crushed tortilla chips, or avocado for extra taco vibes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pan
- Cuisine: American-Mexican Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: taco macaroni and cheese, taco pasta, one skillet meals