Taco Macaroni and Cheese
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Taco Macaroni and Cheese combines the satisfaction of cheesy comfort food with the vibrant flavors of taco night, creating an irresistible dish that’s perfect for any family gathering or casual weeknight dinner. After trying countless variations, this recipe shines as one of my all-time favorites. Its velvety cheese sauce envelops pasta in rich beef broth and zesty salsa, while the taco seasoning infuses each bite with a delightful kick. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or indulging in a cozy meal for one, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.
Why make this recipe
You might ask, what makes Taco Macaroni and Cheese so special? For starters, it’s a one-pot wonder that saves you from washing a mountain of dishes while cooking! This dish is not only incredibly budget-friendly, utilizing common pantry ingredients, but it also packs a hearty punch of flavor and is kid-approved. It’s a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or even as a crowd-pleaser during weekend game nights.
“I can’t get over how delicious this dish is! My kids gobbled it up, and I loved that it was ready in about 30 minutes. It’s definitely going in our regular rotation!” – Sarah, family cook
Preparing Taco Macaroni and Cheese
Making this recipe is straightforward and leaves little room for error, perfect for novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. The process revolves around cooking your ground beef and onions, adding the remaining ingredients, and letting them marry together to create a heavenly cheesy blend. Here’s a high-level overview to get you excited:
- Sauté the onion until tender.
- Cook the ground beef until browned.
- Stir in the pasta along with flavorful liquids and seasonings.
- Finish with creamy cheeses for richness.
These simple steps will lead to a comforting dish that’s bound to become a new favorite.
Ingredients
What you’ll need
To whip up this delightful Taco Macaroni and Cheese, make sure you have these ingredients on hand:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 2 ½ cups beef broth
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 package taco seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 cups dry rotini pasta
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- Green onions for garnish (optional)
Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey or a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian version!
Step-by-step instructions
Cooking method
Let’s get cooking! Follow these clear steps for perfectly creamy and cheesy taco goodness:
Sauté the onions: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium to high heat. Add the diced onions and cook until they’re soft and translucent.
Brown the beef: Add the ground beef, salt, and pepper to the pot with the onions. Cook until the meat is browned and crumbly. Drain any excess grease.
Mix in the flavors: Stir in the beef broth, salsa, taco seasoning, garlic powder, and rotini pasta. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low, cooking for about 15 minutes. Remember to stir every 5 minutes to prevent sticking.
Cheesy goodness: Once the liquid has mostly evaporated, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the cream cheese and 2 cups of shredded cheddar until it’s completely melted and well-combined.
Garnish and serve: Top with the remaining cheese and garnish with finely chopped green onions, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving suggestions
There are numerous ways to enjoy Taco Macaroni and Cheese! Serve it hot in bowls with extra salsa and a dollop of sour cream on top for an added tang. Pair it with crunchy tortilla chips, a fresh garden salad, or guacamole for a delightful contrast. You could even create a taco bar, allowing guests to customize their bowls with toppings like jalapeños, diced tomatoes, and cilantro.
Storage and reheating tips
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you happen to have leftovers (which is a rare occurrence!), this dish stores beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. In the fridge, it will keep for about 3-5 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm it up on the stovetop with a splash of beef broth to restore creaminess.
For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Once cooled, portion out and place in freezer-safe bags. It will last about 2-3 months in the freezer. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Helpful cooking tips
Tricks for success
To take this dish to the next level, here are some helpful tips:
- Make sure to stir frequently during the cooking phase to avoid pasta sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- For an extra layer of flavor, experiment with different types of cheeses, like pepper jack or queso blanco.
- Consider adding in black beans or corn for additional nutrition and texture.
- If you love a spicy kick, toss in a few diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce!
Creative twists
Recipe variations
Don’t feel restricted to the ingredients listed! Here are some creative twists you can try:
- Swap the rotini for whole grain or gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary needs.
- Incorporate seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to amp up the nutrition.
- For a southwestern flair, mix in diced avocado or cilantro just before serving.
- Try using different salsas—mild, medium, or hot—to customize the heat level.
Your questions answered
Common questions
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can cook the beef and onions beforehand and store them in the fridge. Just combine with the other ingredients when you’re ready to cook.What’s the best way to know if my pasta is done?
Keep an eye on it during the 15-minute simmer and taste test! It should be tender but still al dente.How do I store leftovers safely?
Let the dish cool before placing it in airtight containers. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Get ready to indulge in a comforting bowl of Taco Macaroni and Cheese that simply can’t be beat! Enjoy experimenting with flavors and ingredients to make this your very own culinary masterpiece.
