Taco Macaroni and Cheese

Here’s a delicious recipe for Taco Macaroni and Cheese—a fun and cheesy twist on classic mac and cheese with bold taco flavors!

Table of Contents

For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta)
For the Taco Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with green chilies)
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned, drained)

For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheeses)
- Salt and pepper, to taste

For Topping (optional):
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
- Additional cheese for sprinkling
- Chopped green onions or cilantro for garnish

Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Taco Mixture:
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet, cooking until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
- Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes (with juices), and corn. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens (about 3-5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Everything:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, taco mixture, and cheese sauce. Mix until everything is well coated.
Bake (optional):
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with crushed tortilla chips and additional cheese.
- Bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and the cheese is bubbly.
Serve:
- Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

This Taco Macaroni and Cheese is a comforting and fun dish that brings together the best of both worlds—perfect for a family dinner or a potluck!