Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
A vibrant bowl of taco macaroni and cheese topped with shredded cheese, fresh salsa, and chopped cilantro. The dish features a creamy cheese sauce with visible pasta and savory taco seasonings, presented on a rustic wooden table with a spoon nearby, garnished with lime wedges and sliced jalapenos in the background.

Easy Taco Macaroni & Cheese Dinner


  • Author: Maria
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Comfort Food

Description

Discover the ultimate comfort food with our Easy Taco Macaroni & Cheese Dinner. Combining creamy, cheesy goodness with bold taco flavors, this quick and easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or a satisfying, inexpensive meal. A cheesy, meaty delight that comes together in just minutes!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) of elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1 packet of taco seasoning mix (or homemade taco seasoning)
  • 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup of sour cream
  • 1/2 cup of milk
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, chopped tomatoes

Instructions

  1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground meat and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed. Stir in taco seasoning and cook for 2 minutes.
  3. Add cooked pasta to the skillet with seasoned meat. Pour in sour cream, milk, and half of the shredded cheeses. Stir until cheeses melt and form a creamy sauce.
  4. Sprinkle remaining shredded cheese on top and cook until melted, about 2 minutes. Serve hot with optional toppings like cilantro, jalapeños, or chopped tomatoes.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
  • Can be baked as a casserole by transferring to a baking dish, topping with more cheese, and baking at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 550 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 65 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg