Description

This Taco Mac and Cheese recipe is a flavorful twist on classic mac and cheese, combining seasoned ground beef, hearty beans, and zesty spices with creamy cheeses and elbow macaroni. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal, it delivers a rich blend of Mexican-inspired flavors in a cheesy pasta dish that’s easy to make in one skillet.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

1 pound 85% lean ground beef
1 onion, diced
15 ounces canned corn, drained (1 can)
15 ounces canned black beans, drained and rinsed (1 can)
10 ounces diced tomatoes and chilis (1 can)

Spices and Seasonings

3 tablespoons taco seasoning (equivalent to 1½ packets)
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon chili powder

Liquids and Pasta

3 cups water
16 ounces dry elbow macaroni (1 box)

Cheeses and Garnishes

2 ounces cream cheese (¼ brick)
1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
Diced green onions (optional, for topping)

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Instructions

Cook the beef and onion: In a large 13-inch skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes until browned. Add the diced onion and cook together for an additional 2 minutes. Drain any excess fat or grease from the skillet.
Add vegetables and seasonings: Stir in the drained corn, black beans, diced tomatoes with chilis, taco seasoning, black pepper, chili powder, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Add macaroni: Add the dry elbow macaroni to the skillet and mix well to distribute evenly with the other ingredients.
Add cream cheese: Stir in the cream cheese until it is fully melted and incorporated into the mixture, creating a creamy base.
Simmer the pasta: Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is fully cooked and tender.
Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle the shredded Mexican blend cheese on top to melt slightly. Garnish with diced green onions if desired before serving.

Notes

Use lean ground beef for a balance of flavor and fat content.
Drain and rinse canned beans well to reduce sodium and improve texture.
Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking to the skillet.
Diced green onions add a fresh flavor and colorful garnish but are optional.
For a spicier dish, add extra chili powder or hot sauce to taste.
Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated; add a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.