Taco Mac (Cheesy Taco Pasta)

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Taco Mac (Cheesy Taco Pasta)

Description

Taco Mac is the ultimate comfort-food mashup—seasoned taco beef mixed with creamy, cheesy macaroni. It’s quick, filling, family-friendly, and perfect for busy nights. Think taco night + mac & cheese = instant win.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef

  • 1 packet taco seasoning

  • 2 boxes shell macaroni & cheese (Velveeta-style)

  • Water (for boiling pasta)

Optional Add-Ins (Highly Recommended):

  • ½ cup milk (for extra creaminess)

  • ½ cup shredded cheddar or Mexican-blend cheese

  • ½ cup canned corn, drained

  • ½ cup black beans, rinsed

  • Diced tomatoes or Rotel

  • Jalapeños (for heat)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta
    Boil macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

  2. Brown the Beef
    In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned.
    Drain excess grease.

  3. Season the Beef
    Add taco seasoning and the amount of water listed on the packet.
    Simmer 2–3 minutes until thickened.

  4. Make the Cheese Sauce
    Prepare macaroni & cheese according to package directions.

  5. Combine
    Stir taco beef into the prepared mac & cheese.
    Add optional milk or extra cheese if desired.

  6. Serve Hot
    Mix well, taste, and adjust seasoning.

Notes

  • This dish thickens as it cools—add a splash of milk when reheating

  • Mild enough for kids, easy to spice up for adults

  • Great as a one-pan meal

Tips for Best Taco Mac

  • 🔥 Use hot taco seasoning for more kick

  • 🧀 Add extra cheese for ultra-creamy texture

  • 🌮 Top with crushed tortilla chips for crunch

  • 🥩 Ground turkey or chicken works just as well

Servings

  • Serves: 6

  • Serving Size: About 1½ cups per serving

Nutritional Info (Approx. per serving)

(May vary by brand)

  • Calories: ~520

  • Protein: ~24 g

  • Fat: ~28 g

  • Carbohydrates: ~42 g

  • Fiber: ~3 g

  • Sodium: ~900 mg

Benefits of Taco Mac

  • ✔ High protein keeps you full

  • ✔ Quick & budget-friendly

  • ✔ Kid-approved comfort food

  • ✔ Easy to customize with veggies

  • ✔ Great for leftovers & meal prep

Q & A – Taco Mac

Q: Can I make Taco Mac ahead of time?
Yes! Store in the fridge up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk.

Q: Can I bake it?
Absolutely. Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes.

Q: Is Taco Mac spicy?
Only as spicy as your taco seasoning. Use mild or hot as preferred.

Q: Can I freeze it?
Yes, but texture is best fresh. Freeze up to 2 months.

Q: Can I make it healthier?
Use whole-wheat pasta, lean beef, reduced-fat cheese, and add veggies.

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