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Taco Mac

Creamy Taco Mac: Comfort Food in Every Bite

This Creamy Taco Mac is a delightful blend of cheesy goodness and zesty taco flavor, making it the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Beef Mixture
  • 1 pound Ground Beef substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option
  • 1 packet Taco Seasoning use homemade seasoning for less sodium
  • 1 cup Water can be replaced with beef broth for added flavor
For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Elbow Macaroni substitute with any small pasta like rotini or penne
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese substitute with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a sharper taste
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese can be omitted for a lighter version or replaced with a dairy-free cheese
  • 1 cup Milk use any milk or plant-based alternative
For the Extras
  • 1 can Diced Tomatoes provides moisture and acidity; fresh tomatoes can be used
  • 1 cup Sour Cream substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Green Onions can also use cilantro for a different flavor profile
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil replace with cooking spray or omit if desirable

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • pot
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Taco Mac
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
  2. Stir in the taco seasoning and water into the browned beef, ensuring everything is coated evenly. Bring to a gentle simmer; cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  3. While the beef simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the macaroni.
  4. In the same pot, heat a splash of olive oil. Add the diced tomatoes and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they soften and release juices.
  5. Add the beef mixture and cooked macaroni back into the pot with sautéed tomatoes. Stir together until well combined, ensuring the macaroni is evenly coated.
  6. Pour in the milk and stir, then add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Mix over medium heat until the cheese has melted completely.
  7. Remove the pot from heat and fold in the sour cream until fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasonings if desired.
  8. Spoon portions into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped green onions. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftover Taco Mac in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if it thickens.

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