Okay, friends, let's get cheesy! This recipe isn't your grandma's mac and cheese (unless your grandma is super cool and loves tacos). It's a flavor explosion—a fiesta in a baking dish! I came up with this recipe after a particularly challenging week; sometimes, comfort food is the only cure! I figured, why not combine two of my favorite things? Taco and mac and cheese. This is a truly easy recipe. A recipe so simple even I can do it. I know you can too! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun game night with friends. It's also easily adaptable, so feel free to get creative with toppings.
I remember the first time I made this; I was so nervous! I almost messed it up, because I added too much flour to the roux and it ended up too thick, so I added more milk. It turned out delicious still! The whole family loved it—even my picky cousin who refuses to eat anything green. That being said, this recipe might not be perfect for people who don’t eat meat.
Required Equipments
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- large saucepan
- whisk
- measuring cups and spoons
- oven
Taco Mac and Cheese: Frequently Asked Questions
Taco Mac and Cheese
This Taco Mac and Cheese recipe is a cheesy, comforting, and easy-to-make twist on a classic dish. It's perfect for a family dinner or a fun gathering with friends.
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield: 4 servings
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Set aside.
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. Don't overcook—we're baking it later!
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth. This is your roux, the base of our creamy sauce.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Once simmering, reduce heat to low and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and taco seasoning until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir in the cooked pasta, cooked ground beef (or substitute), and drained black beans until well combined. Be gentle, so as not to break the pasta!
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Watch carefully, every oven is a little different!
- Let cool slightly before serving, and if you're feeling fancy, top with some sour cream, diced tomatoes, avocado, or extra cilantro!
📝 Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Feel free to use different types of cheese; pepper jack or Colby Jack would be great too!
- If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked ground beef or shredded chicken for extra convenience.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different taco toppings to make it uniquely yours!
🍎 Nutrition
Calories: 450kcal
Protein: 20g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 5g
Calcium: 300mg
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