Mac and Cheese Taco Casserole (Printable Version)
Macaroni merges with beef, cheddar, and taco flavors, baked into a golden, sharable casserole.
# The Ingredients You'll Need:
→ Pasta
01 - 8 oz elbow macaroni
→ Meat
02 - 1 lb ground beef
→ Vegetables
03 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
04 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
05 - 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
06 - 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
07 - 1 cup frozen corn kernels
→ Dairy
08 - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
09 - 1 cup milk
10 - 2 tbsp cream cheese
→ Spices and Pantry
11 - 2 tbsp taco seasoning
12 - 2 tbsp butter
13 - 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
14 - 1/2 tsp salt
15 - 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
16 - 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips (optional, for topping)
# Step-by-Step Instructions:
01 - Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
02 - Boil elbow macaroni in a large pot according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside.
03 - In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until thoroughly browned. Drain off excess fat.
04 - Add onion and red bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
05 - Stir in taco seasoning, black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and frozen corn. Cook an additional 2 to 3 minutes, then remove from heat.
06 - In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add milk, whisking until slightly thickened, about 2 to 3 minutes.
07 - Incorporate cream cheese and 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until sauce is smooth and melted.
08 - In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, beef-vegetable mixture, and cheese sauce. Mix thoroughly and season with salt and pepper.
09 - Transfer mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top evenly with the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese and crushed tortilla chips, if using.
10 - Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until casserole is hot, bubbly, and golden. Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
# Additional Tips::
01 -
- Easy to assemble with simple steps that suit any skill level
- Combines two family favorites for a unique crowd-pleaser
- Works well for meal prep and reheats beautifully
- Customizable for picky eaters or spice lovers
02 -
- High protein and hearty enough to be a full meal
- Freezes well both before and after baking
03 -
- Toast your spices in the skillet with the beef for a punchier taco flavor
- Grate your own cheese for smoother melt and better taste than pre-shredded options
- Always let the casserole rest before cutting in It helps everything hold together