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A creamy bowl of high protein macaroni and cheese featuring perfectly cooked elbow macaroni coated in a rich, cheesy sauce, topped with finely chopped herbs and slices of grilled chicken on the side, all served on a rustic wooden table with a sprig of parsley for garnish.

Taco Mac and Cheese

  • Author: Maria
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: High Protein

Description

Taco Mac and Cheese is a flavorful, protein-packed twist on traditional comfort food. Combining tender pasta, savory ground beef, and bold taco seasonings, this high-protein mac and cheese recipe delivers a creamy, satisfying dish perfect for lunch or dinner. Easy to prepare and customizable with toppings, it’s an ideal meal for muscle recovery and energy boosting while satisfying your cheesy craving.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) healthy ground beef or your preferred beef options
  • 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne, shells, or macaroni)
  • 1 packet taco seasoning mix
  • 1 cup (240ml) salsa or diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) milk or heavy cream
  • 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking oil
  • Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, sour cream, avocado slices

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta in boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
  3. Stir in taco seasoning and salsa, simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
  4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and mix well.
  5. Pour in milk or heavy cream, then stir in cheese until melted and creamy. Cook on low for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Serve in bowls, garnished with optional toppings like cilantro or sour cream, and enjoy your protein-rich Taco Mac and Cheese.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground beef with chicken, shrimp, or vegetarian protein options like beans or tofu.
  • For extra flavor and nutrition, add vegetables like bell peppers or corn.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk for creaminess.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 550 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 900mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

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Find it online: https://recipeswonders.com/taco-mac-and-cheese/