Cheesy Taco Mac

Introduction

Cheesy Taco Mac is the ultimate weeknight comfort food mashup—combining the bold flavors of tacos with the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese. Hey, Samuel here! I made this dish one night when I couldn’t decide between Taco Tuesday and mac and cheese, and it was an instant hit with the whole family. It’s rich, spicy, cheesy, and totally satisfying—all in one skillet. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Let’s dive into this cozy crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade)
• 2 cups beef or chicken broth
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1 cup salsa (mild or spicy to taste)
• 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• ½ cup milk or heavy cream
• Optional toppings: sour cream, green onions, jalapeños, crushed tortilla chips

Directions

Step 1: Sauté the Base

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
2. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
3. Stir in chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened.

Step 2: Add Seasoning and Liquids

1. Sprinkle taco seasoning over the meat mixture and stir well.
2. Pour in broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), and salsa.
3. Stir in the uncooked macaroni.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring everything to a simmer, reduce heat, and cover.
2. Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Make It Cheesy

1. Stir in shredded cheese and milk until melted and creamy.
2. Let it simmer uncovered for 2–3 more minutes for a thicker consistency.

Step 5: Serve and Top

1. Scoop into bowls and top with your favorites: sour cream, green onions, jalapeños, or chips for crunch.
2. Enjoy hot!

Tips & Tricks

• One-Pot Wonder: Use a deep skillet or Dutch oven to keep everything in one pan.
• Spice It Up: Add chili flakes or spicy salsa if you love heat.
• Make It a Casserole: Pour finished dish into a baking dish, sprinkle extra cheese on top, and broil for a crispy finish.
• Leftover Magic: Tastes even better the next day—store in an airtight container and reheat gently.

This is just one example, if you want to vary your dinner table, here we have 10 Quick Kid-Friendly Dinner Ideas