Easy Taco Mac and Cheese: Your Ultimate Quick & Delicious Family Dinner

Welcome to your new go-to recipe for busy weeknights: Easy Taco Mac and Cheese! This incredible dish effortlessly blends the comforting warmth of classic macaroni and cheese with the vibrant, zesty flavors of your favorite tacos. It’s a truly budget-friendly, family-friendly meal crafted from simple ingredients like savory ground beef, robust taco seasoning, and the convenience of boxed mac and cheese. Perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or a small family, this recipe promises big flavor with minimal effort, making it an instant hit at any dinner table.

Forget complicated cooking – this meal is designed for simplicity without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, you’ll appreciate how quickly this dish comes together. It’s an inspired creation, building on the success of beloved comfort food with a Tex-Mex twist that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why This Easy Taco Mac and Cheese Recipe Is a Weeknight Win

In the quest for satisfying and easy weeknight dinners, this Easy Taco Mac and Cheese stands out as a true champion. Its appeal lies in its remarkable simplicity combined with an explosion of flavors that everyone, from picky eaters to adventurous palates, will adore. Here’s why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your culinary rotation:

• Effortless Preparation: This dish is incredibly easy to assemble, requiring just a few staple ingredients and straightforward steps. You’ll spend less time cooking and more time enjoying your meal with loved ones. It’s the perfect solution for busy evenings when time is precious.
• Budget-Friendly: Utilizing affordable ingredients like ground beef and boxed macaroni and cheese, this recipe helps keep grocery costs down without compromising on taste or satisfaction. It’s a smart choice for feeding a family without breaking the bank.
• Family-Approved Flavor: The familiar comfort of macaroni and cheese meets the exciting zest of taco flavors in a harmony that’s universally appealing. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that even the pickiest eaters will happily devour.
• Customizable and Versatile: This recipe is a fantastic canvas for customization. Easily adapt it to suit different tastes or dietary needs by swapping proteins, adjusting spice levels, or incorporating your favorite vegetables.
• Quick from Pantry to Plate: With minimal prep and cook time, you can have a hearty, delicious meal on the table in about 30 minutes. This makes it an ideal option for last-minute dinner plans or when you need a speedy solution.

Inspired by the delightful simplicity of my Crock Pot Taco Pasta recipe, this rendition brings the same irresistible taco essence into a creamy mac and cheese format. It’s comfort food reimagined, offering a quick, flavorful, and satisfying experience that will quickly become a cherished family tradition.

What Vegetables Can I Add to Taco Macaroni and Cheese?

While absolutely delicious on its own, Easy Taco Mac and Cheese also offers a fantastic opportunity to sneak in some extra vegetables, boosting both nutrition and flavor. Integrating vegetables into the dish or serving them on the side can add freshness, texture, and vibrant color to your meal.

For a perfect addition, consider stirring in steamed or lightly sautéed broccoli florets directly into the mix. Its mild flavor and tender-crisp texture complement the rich, cheesy taco blend beautifully. You can also serve broccoli on the side, perhaps lightly seasoned with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese, as shown in some of my serving suggestions.

Beyond broccoli, the possibilities are vast! Here are some other fantastic vegetable additions to consider, either mixed in or served alongside:

• Corn: Sweet corn kernels (canned, frozen, or fresh) add a burst of sweetness and a lovely texture.
• Black Beans: Rinsed and drained black beans enhance the Tex-Mex theme, adding protein and fiber.
• Diced Bell Peppers: Sautéed red, green, or yellow bell peppers provide a mild crunch and sweet flavor.
• Diced Onions: Sautéed onions can add a foundational savory depth to the meat mixture.
• Diced Tomatoes: Fresh diced tomatoes stirred in at the end, or served as a topping, bring a juicy freshness.
• Spinach: Wilted spinach is an easy way to add greens without altering the flavor profile significantly.

My entire family absolutely adored this dish, cementing its place in our regular dinner rotation. To truly elevate this meal to the next level, don’t forget the fun and flavorful toppings! Crushed tortilla chips provide a satisfying crunch, a dollop of sour cream adds creamy coolness, and fresh diced tomatoes offer a pop of acidity. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or sliced green onions also adds a wonderful aromatic touch.

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Taco Mac and Cheese

Crafting this sensational Easy Taco Mac and Cheese requires just a handful of straightforward ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry or fridge. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and accessibility, ensuring a delicious meal is always within reach. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to create this family favorite:

The Heart of the Meal: Ground Beef (or Alternatives)

• Ground Beef: A cornerstone of many hearty meals, one pound of ground beef provides the rich, savory foundation for our taco mac. When browning, aim for a fine crumble and make sure to drain any excess grease to prevent the dish from becoming oily.
• Alternatives: For those looking for lighter options or different flavor profiles, feel free to substitute with ground turkey or ground chicken. These leaner meats will also absorb the taco seasoning wonderfully. If you prefer a vegetarian version, cooked lentils, black beans, or a plant-based ground meat substitute can work just as well.

The Flavor Factor: Taco Seasoning

• Taco Seasoning: This is where the magic happens, infusing our dish with that distinctive Tex-Mex flair. A single packet of store-bought taco seasoning is convenient and delivers consistent flavor.
• Homemade Option: For those who prefer to control the ingredients and spice level, making a homemade taco seasoning is an excellent choice. It allows you to adjust the heat, salt, and specific spices to your family’s liking.

The Unsung Hero: Water

• Water: You’ll use the amount specified on the back of your taco seasoning packet. This critical ingredient helps to dissolve the seasoning, allowing it to coat the ground beef evenly and create a flavorful, slightly thickened sauce that melds perfectly with the macaroni and cheese.

The Creamy Base: Macaroni and Cheese

• Macaroni and Cheese: The ultimate comfort food base! Use your favorite boxed mac and cheese for maximum convenience. I personally love using the shells and cheese variety for its delightful texture and the way the sauce clings to every curve. This recipe is designed to work with any 12-ounce package of macaroni and cheese that comes with a liquid cheese sauce, ensuring a consistently creamy and cheesy result.

Optional Toppings to Elevate Your Dish

These ingredients aren’t strictly necessary but will truly take your Taco Mac and Cheese to the next level, adding freshness, texture, and bursts of flavor:

• Shredded Lettuce: Adds a cool, crisp contrast.
• Diced Tomatoes: Provides juicy freshness and a pop of color.
• Sour Cream: A dollop offers a creamy, tangy counterpoint to the rich flavors.
• Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese: An extra layer of cheesy goodness.
• Tortilla Chips: Crushed for an irresistible crunchy texture.
• Sliced Green Onions or Cilantro: For a fresh, aromatic garnish.
• Avocado or Guacamole: Adds healthy fats and a creamy texture.
• Salsa: For an extra kick of tangy flavor.
• Jalapeños: Fresh or pickled, for those who enjoy a spicier dish.

How to Make Taco Mac and Cheese: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Making this Easy Taco Mac and Cheese is a breeze, promising a delicious and hearty meal with minimal fuss. Follow these straightforward steps to create a dish that’s rich in flavor and satisfyingly creamy.

Step 1: Prepare Your Macaroni and Cheese Base

Begin by preparing your favorite boxed macaroni and cheese. In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the pasta from your 12-ounce box of macaroni and cheese (I typically opt for shells and cheese for optimal sauce coverage). Cook according to the package directions until the pasta is al dente. After cooking, drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Stir in the liquid cheese sauce packet as directed on the box, ensuring the pasta is thoroughly coated and creamy. Set aside while you prepare the taco meat.

Step 2: Crafting the Savory Taco Meat

In a separate large skillet, brown one pound of ground beef over medium heat. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to break the meat into small, even crumbles as it cooks. Once the ground beef is fully browned and no pink remains, carefully drain any excess grease from the skillet. This step is crucial for preventing an overly oily dish.

Return the browned beef to the skillet. Add one packet of taco seasoning and the amount of water specified on the seasoning packet (typically around ⅔ cup). Stir everything together well, ensuring the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the meat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow the mixture to thicken, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid has been absorbed and the meat is coated in a rich, flavorful sauce. This typically takes about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Bringing It All Together: The Fusion

Once your taco meat mixture is ready and thickened, it’s time for the delicious merger! Carefully add the seasoned taco meat directly into the pot with the prepared macaroni and cheese. Stir vigorously until the taco meat is thoroughly combined with the cheesy pasta, ensuring every bite is a perfect blend of flavors. At this point, the dish is incredibly delicious and ready to be served!

Step 4: Serve and Garnish for an Unforgettable Meal

Dish out generous portions of your freshly made Taco Mac and Cheese. For a simple yet satisfying meal, serve it alongside a crisp green salad or some steamed vegetables. I often opt for microwaveable steamed broccoli, which I sprinkle with a touch of shredded cheese and season with salt and pepper for a quick and healthy side.

If you’re looking to turn this meal into a true feast, go all out with the toppings! Transform your serving into a majestic culinary experience by adding a dollop of cool sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh shredded lettuce, juicy diced tomatoes, and a handful of crunchy crushed tortilla chips. A final flourish of shredded cheddar cheese or sliced green onions will complete this irresistible dish, making it look as good as it tastes.

Delicious Variations and Customizations for Your Taco Mac

One of the best aspects of Easy Taco Mac and Cheese is its incredible versatility. This recipe is a fantastic starting point, but don’t hesitate to make it your own! Here are several ways to customize and vary your taco mac to suit different tastes, dietary preferences, or simply to use what you have on hand.

Protein Swaps for Every Palate

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: As mentioned, these are excellent leaner alternatives to ground beef. They still soak up the taco seasoning beautifully and offer a slightly milder flavor.
• Chorizo: For a spicier, more robust flavor, try using ground chorizo. It adds a fantastic depth and a bit of a kick.
• Vegetarian Options:
  • Black Beans & Corn: Omit the meat entirely and increase the amount of black beans and corn for a flavorful vegetarian version. Sauté them with the taco seasoning.
  • Lentils: Cooked brown or green lentils can be seasoned with taco spices and substituted for ground meat, providing a hearty, protein-rich option.
  • Plant-Based Ground: Many excellent plant-based ground meat substitutes are available that can be cooked and seasoned just like traditional ground beef.

Spice It Up or Down

• Heat Lovers: If you enjoy a fiery kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to your taco meat. Fresh or pickled jalapeños, either cooked with the meat or added as a topping, also provide a wonderful heat. A dash of hot sauce stirred into the finished dish is another easy way to amp up the spice.
• Milder Version: If you’re cooking for young children or those sensitive to spice, choose a mild taco seasoning or reduce the amount used. You can also make your own seasoning blend with less chili powder and cumin.

Cheese Please! Explore Different Cheeses

• While boxed mac and cheese provides the base, you can enhance the cheesy factor. Stir in some extra shredded cheese with the boxed cheese sauce for an even creamier, richer mac and cheese.
• Cheddar Jack: A classic blend that offers a great melt and mild flavor.
• Monterey Jack: Known for its superior melt, adding a smooth, creamy texture.
• Pepper Jack: For a slight spicy kick and creamy texture, perfect for a taco theme.
• Mexican Cheese Blend: Pre-shredded blends often contain a mix of cheeses that complement taco flavors.

Boost with More Veggies

Beyond broccoli, consider these additions to enhance flavor and nutrition:

• Sautéed Bell Peppers and Onions: Cook these with your ground beef for added sweetness and aromatic depth.
• Diced Zucchini or Squash: Finely diced and cooked with the meat, these vegetables blend seamlessly into the dish.
• Rotel (Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies): Stir in a can of Rotel for a flavor boost and a touch of heat and acidity.

Gourmet Touches and Flavor Enhancers

• Cream Cheese: For an extra layer of richness and creaminess, stir in a couple of ounces of cream cheese (softened) with the boxed cheese sauce.
• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or green onions at the end brightens up the entire dish.
• A Squeeze of Lime: A fresh lime wedge served alongside allows for a bright, zesty finish that cuts through the richness.
• Smoked Paprika: A pinch added to the taco meat can impart a lovely smoky depth.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with these variations to discover your family’s favorite version of this incredibly versatile and delicious Taco Mac and Cheese!

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Taco Mac and Cheese

Easy Taco Mac and Cheese is a hearty and flavorful meal on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate your dining experience and create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic suggestions to complement the rich, cheesy, and savory notes of your taco mac:

Fresh and Crisp Sides

• Green Salad: A simple, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing is an excellent choice. The fresh, cool greens provide a refreshing contrast to the warm and hearty mac and cheese, balancing the meal beautifully. Consider adding some chopped cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion for extra crunch and flavor.
• Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw can also cut through the richness of the dish, offering a different texture and a burst of fresh flavor.

Vegetable Boosts

• Steamed Broccoli: As mentioned earlier, steamed broccoli is a perfect companion. Lightly season it with salt, pepper, and perhaps a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for an added touch.
• Roasted Asparagus: Roasting asparagus with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper brings out its natural sweetness and provides a tender-crisp texture.
• Sautéed Bell Peppers and Onions: If you haven’t already incorporated them into the mac and cheese, a side of lightly sautéed bell peppers and onions adds a sweet and savory element.
• Corn on the Cob or Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Sweet corn is a natural pairing with taco flavors. Grilled corn on the cob or a creamy, spicy elote can be a show-stopping side.

Complementary Carbs and Dips

• Tortilla Chips with Dips: A bowl of crispy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa, creamy guacamole, or even a spicy queso dip enhances the taco theme and provides a satisfying crunch.
• Warm Cornbread: A slice of warm, slightly sweet cornbread offers a comforting and absorbent side that perfectly soaks up any extra cheesy taco goodness.
• Garlic Bread or Cheesy Bread: While less “taco-themed,” a classic side like garlic bread or cheesy bread can never go wrong with a pasta dish, especially for those who love their carbs.

Refreshing Beverages

• Iced Tea or Lemonade: A tall glass of refreshing iced tea or homemade lemonade can be a great palate cleanser.
• Agua Fresca: For a truly authentic Tex-Mex experience, consider serving fruit-infused waters like horchata or jamaica (hibiscus tea).

By adding one or more of these complementary sides, you can transform your Easy Taco Mac and Cheese from a simple meal into a wholesome and memorable family dinner.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips for Easy Taco Mac and Cheese

This Easy Taco Mac and Cheese is not only quick to make, but it’s also excellent for meal prepping and storing leftovers. Whether you want to prepare it ahead for a busy week or save portions for later, these tips will help you enjoy this delicious dish whenever you please.

Making Ahead

• Partial Prep: You can brown and season the ground beef ahead of time. Once cooked, let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply cook the mac and cheese, reheat the taco meat, and combine.
• Full Assembly (Without Baking): While it’s best served fresh, you can fully assemble the Taco Mac and Cheese a day in advance. Combine the cooked mac and cheese with the taco meat, let it cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Any leftover Taco Mac and Cheese should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. It will stay fresh and delicious for 3-4 days.
• Freezing: Taco Mac and Cheese freezes surprisingly well!
  • Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
  • Transfer individual portions or a larger batch into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. If using bags, squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
  • Label with the date. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Instructions

• From Refrigerator:
  • Microwave: For individual servings, place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through. You might want to add a tablespoon of milk or broth before heating to help bring back some creaminess.
  • Stovetop: For larger amounts, transfer to a skillet or pot over medium-low heat. Add a splash of milk or broth and stir occasionally until heated through and creamy.
• From Freezer:
  • Thawing: For best results, thaw frozen Taco Mac and Cheese in the refrigerator overnight.
  • Reheating: Reheat thawed portions using the microwave or stovetop methods described above, adding extra liquid as needed. You can also reheat directly from frozen in the oven (covered with foil) at 350°F (175°C) for 30-45 minutes, or until heated through, stirring gently halfway. Adding a little liquid will help prevent it from drying out.

With these tips, you can ensure that your Easy Taco Mac and Cheese remains a convenient and satisfying meal solution throughout the week!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Taco Mac and Cheese

Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making and enjoying Easy Taco Mac and Cheese:

1. Can I use homemade mac and cheese instead of boxed?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade mac and cheese recipe, feel free to use it. Just ensure it’s a creamy style that will combine well with the taco meat. The convenience of boxed mac and cheese is highlighted here for its speed, but homemade versions will also work wonderfully.

2. How can I make this dish spicier?

There are several ways to add more heat:

• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the ground beef along with the taco seasoning.
• Use a “hot” or “extra spicy” taco seasoning packet.
• Stir in a few tablespoons of diced green chilies (canned) with the taco meat.
• Top your serving with fresh or pickled jalapeño slices, a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce, or a spicy salsa.

3. Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, it is! Taco Mac and Cheese freezes well. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.

4. Can I use different types of pasta for the mac and cheese?

Certainly! While shells and elbow macaroni are classic choices that hold creamy sauces well, you can use any small to medium-sized pasta shape that you prefer for your mac and cheese. Penne, rotini, or cavatappi would also work great.

5. How long does Taco Mac and Cheese last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, leftovers will remain fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Always ensure it’s cooled quickly and properly before refrigerating.

6. Can I add more vegetables to the mix?

Definitely! This recipe is very adaptable to adding more vegetables. Sautéed bell peppers, onions, corn, or black beans can be stirred in with the taco meat for added flavor, texture, and nutrition. You can also fold in some fresh spinach at the very end until it wilts.

7. What kind of cheese should I use for toppings?

A shredded cheddar jack blend is a fantastic choice for its flavor and meltability. Monterey Jack, a Mexican blend, or even a sharp cheddar would also be delicious options to sprinkle on top.

8. Can I make this with ground chicken or turkey?

Yes, ground chicken or turkey are excellent lean alternatives to ground beef. Prepare them in the same way, browning and crumbling them before adding the taco seasoning and water. The flavor will be slightly milder, but still incredibly delicious.

More Family-Friendly Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed this Easy Taco Mac and Cheese, you’re in for a treat! Explore more comforting and delicious recipes that are perfect for family dinners:

• Crock Pot Mac and Cheese: The ultimate slow-cooked creamy delight.
• White Cheddar Mac and Cheese: A sophisticated twist on a classic.
• Taco Stuffed Potatoes: All your favorite taco flavors piled onto a baked potato.
• Instant Pot Sausage Mac and Cheese: A super quick and flavorful one-pot meal.
• Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese: For those who love a spicy kick in their comfort food.
• Old School Hamburger Hash: A nostalgic, hearty, and easy skillet dinner.
• Easy Cheesy Macaroni Skillet: Another simple and satisfying stovetop pasta dish.
• Cheeseburger Macaroni Casserole: All the flavors of a cheeseburger in a comforting casserole.
• Homemade Velveeta: Learn how to make your own creamy cheese for the ultimate mac and cheese.

Originally published: March 2018
Updated & republished: February 2021

Taco Mac and Cheese (+Video)

Easy Taco Mac and Cheese is a budget-friendly, family-friendly meal made with ground beef, taco seasoning and boxed mac and cheese.

★★★★★

16 Reviews

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Prep Time:

20 minutes
minutes

Cook Time:

10 minutes
minutes

Total Time:

30 minutes
minutes

Servings:
4

Author:

Brandie Skibinski

Ingredients

• 12
  ounce
  box macaroni and cheese
  (I used the shells and cheese)
• 1
  pound
  ground beef
• 1
  packet
  taco seasoning
• ⅔
  cup
  water
• shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese
  (optional toppings)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, boil water and prepare 12 ounce box macaroni and cheese according to package directions.
   
2. In a separate skillet, brown and crumble 1 pound ground beef. Drain excess grease. Place meat back in skillet and add 1 packet taco seasoning and 2/3 cup water. Keep heat on medium-low and allow mixture to thicken.
   
3. When ready, combine taco meat with prepared macaroni and cheese. Stir well.
   
4. Optional: top with with some shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese or even crushed tortillas for some crunch. Serve with a salad or steamed vegetables.
   

Video

Course:
Main Course

Cuisine:
American

Nutrition

Calories:
574
kcal

|

Carbohydrates:
40
g

|

Protein:
30
g

|

Fat:
31
g

|

Sodium:
836
mg

Nutritional Disclaimer

“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.

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Conclusion: Your New Favorite Weeknight Meal Awaits!

There you have it – a comprehensive guide to crafting the most delightful and easy Taco Mac and Cheese. This recipe truly embodies the best of both worlds: the familiar comfort of creamy macaroni and cheese and the exciting, zesty flavors of a classic taco. It’s designed to be quick, affordable, and most importantly, a guaranteed hit with every member of your family.

From the simple preparation steps to the endless possibilities for customization, this dish is a testament to how effortless weeknight cooking can be without ever compromising on flavor. Whether you’re enhancing it with extra vegetables, playing with spice levels, or piling on an array of fresh toppings, Taco Mac and Cheese promises a satisfying and memorable meal every time. So, gather your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and get ready to enjoy a fantastic dinner that’s sure to become a cherished part of your family’s meal rotation. Happy cooking!