If you’re craving a comforting dish that combines the zesty flavors of a taco with the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese, then you are going to love this Taco Mac Recipe. It takes simple ingredients like seasoned ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a dreamy blend of cheeses, and marries them into one irresistible, crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Trust me, once you try this Taco Mac Recipe, it will become your go-to for satisfying dinners that bring all the family together.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Taco Mac Recipe uses straightforward ingredients that pack a punch in flavor and texture. Each item plays an essential role, from the savory taco seasoning bringing a burst of spices to the creamy cheese melting everything together for ultimate comfort.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty base that absorbs all the taco seasonings perfectly.
- 1 packet taco seasoning: Adds the signature bold, spicy flavor to elevate the dish.
- 1 cup water: Helps dissolve the seasoning and creates a rich beef mixture.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni: Classic pasta shape that holds sauce well for a cozy bite every time.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and creamy, giving a wonderful cheesy depth.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds gooey stretchiness and mild flavor for balance.
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz): Brings freshness and a slightly tangy touch to the dish.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Ensures a silky, tangy creaminess that melts all components together.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions: Fresh, crisp, and adds a pop of color and bite as a garnish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to cook the tomatoes and keep things luscious.
- 1/2 cup milk: Makes the cheese sauce smoother and lighter.
How to Make Taco Mac Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and adding your ground beef. Make sure to break it up with a spoon or spatula so it cooks evenly and turns perfectly crumbly. Brown it thoroughly until there’s no pink left, giving you that rich meaty base filled with flavor.
Step 2: Season and Simmer
Drain any excess fat and return the skillet to the heat. Stir in your packet of taco seasoning along with one cup of water, mixing everything really well. Then, let it simmer for about five minutes, allowing the seasoning to fully meld with the beef while thickening slightly — this is where those bold flavors develop.
Step 3: Cook the Macaroni
While the beef simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in your elbow macaroni and cook it according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well once done, as you don’t want it too mushy — a nice chew is essential to this dish.
Step 4: Sauté Tomatoes and Combine
Using the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the canned diced tomatoes, including their juices. Let them cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to release their flavor. Then stir in the cooked macaroni and the seasoned beef mixture, combining everything so that each bite is bursting with savory goodness and a slight tang from the tomatoes.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Cheese Sauce
Pour in the milk and stir well to distribute it evenly throughout. Add both the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring continuously until melted into a luscious, velvety sauce that completely dresses the pasta and meat. Finally, mix in the sour cream to give the dish that extra creamy smoothness, making every mouthful rich and delightful.
Step 6: Finish and Garnish
Once your Taco Mac is heated through and perfectly combined, remove it from the heat. Sprinkle chopped green onions on top to add a fresh burst of flavor and a lovely visual contrast. Serve this steaming dish immediately for the best experience.
How to Serve Taco Mac Recipe
Garnishes
Green onions take center stage when it comes to garnishes, contributing freshness and a mild onion crunch. If you want to elevate your Taco Mac Recipe even more, try adding sliced jalapeños or a dollop of guacamole for an extra layer of flavor and texture that complements the spicy beef and creamy cheese beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides that won’t overpower it. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or a side of crunchy tortilla chips are both excellent choices. For a more indulgent touch, Mexican street corn or refried beans will round out the meal with authentic flair.
Creative Ways to Present
Try baking your Taco Mac in a casserole dish with an extra sprinkle of cheese on top for a bubbly, golden crust that’s hard to resist. Alternatively, spoon the mixture into small tortilla bowls for a fun and festive presentation—perfect for parties or casual get-togethers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Taco Mac Recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Just give it a good stir when reheating to restore its creamy consistency.
Freezing
This dish freezes nicely, making it a convenient option for busy days. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag and store for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
When reheating, add a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stirring frequently helps prevent the cheese from clumping and keeps the texture creamy and smooth, just like when freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in this Taco Mac Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and makes the dish a bit leaner while still absorbing the taco seasoning nicely.
What type of taco seasoning is best to use?
You can use any store-bought taco seasoning packet, or better yet, make your own blend for a personalized touch. Just be sure it’s balanced with spices you love.
Is it okay to replace elbow macaroni with other pasta shapes?
Yes! Small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne will also work well, just adjust cooking times as needed.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely. Substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives, lentils, or beans, and use vegetarian taco seasoning to keep the flavors intact.
What if I want it spicier?
Add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when cooking the beef, or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top when serving to kick up the heat.
Final Thoughts
This Taco Mac Recipe is truly a delicious blend of two favorites that’s both simple and satisfying. It’s a marvelous way to enjoy the flavors of tacos in a creamy pasta dish that everyone will love. I hope you give this recipe a try soon and let it become a staple in your dinner rotation — it’s one of those meals that warms the heart and delights the taste buds every single time.
Print
Taco Mac Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 25m
- Total Time: 0h 35m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
Taco Mac is a comforting and hearty dish that combines seasoned ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a creamy blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Enhanced with diced tomatoes, sour cream, and fresh green onions, this skillet-cooked recipe delivers a flavorful Mexican-inspired twist on classic macaroni and cheese – perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Meat and Seasoning
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup water
Pasta and Dairy
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
Vegetables and Garnish
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned and cooked through.
- Drain Excess Fat: Remove any excess fat from the skillet, then return the skillet to heat.
- Add Taco Seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning packet and 1 cup water, mixing well to combine and simmer for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Cook Macaroni: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente per package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Tomatoes: In the same pot used for pasta, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced tomatoes with juices and cook 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Combine Ingredients: Add cooked macaroni and beef mixture to the pot with tomatoes. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients well.
- Add Milk and Cheeses: Stir in milk, then add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Cook while stirring until cheeses melt, forming a creamy sauce.
- Incorporate Sour Cream: Mix in sour cream until fully blended and the dish is creamy and smooth.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from heat, top with chopped green onions, and serve hot for a delicious taco-flavored macaroni dish.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and calories.
- Adjust seasoning according to your spice preference—add extra taco seasoning or a pinch of chili powder for more heat.
- For a lighter version, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or use low-fat cheese options.
- Make sure to stir the cheese mixture continuously to prevent sticking or burning on the bottom of the pot.
- This dish can also be prepared ahead and reheated gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
