Taco Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning mix)
2 cups elbow macaroni (or any pasta of your choice)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup cream cheese
2 cups milk
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
1 cup corn (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Toppings: Sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced jalapeños, sliced black olives, salsa, or crushed tortilla chips
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks.
Once the beef is browned and fully cooked, drain any excess fat.
Add the taco seasoning and ½ cup water (as per seasoning packet instructions) and let it simmer until thickened. Stir in the optional diced tomatoes and corn if using.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux, stirring constantly.
Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until the mixture begins to thicken, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese, cooking until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta, Beef, and Cheese Sauce
Add the cooked pasta and taco-seasoned beef to the cheese sauce, stirring until everything is well combined.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish (if baking) or serve directly from the stovetop.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Serve the Taco Mac and Cheese with your favorite taco toppings, such as sour cream, diced jalapeños, cilantro, salsa, or crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch.