Taco Mac and Cheese Fiesta is the ultimate one-pot dinner that brings together everything you love about taco night—just with way more cheese. Think creamy, melty mac and cheese paired with perfectly seasoned taco beef, bright toppings, and a little crunch from crushed tortilla chips. It’s simple to make, wildly satisfying, and bursting with bold flavor in every single bite.
Even better? This dish comes together in under 30 minutes and only uses a few pantry staples. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or just a craving for comfort food with a twist, this meal hits the spot. You can even customize it—top with jalapeños, avocado, or your favorite salsa for a fun, flavor-packed finish.
Did you know that fusion mac and cheese dishes first surged in popularity in the early 2010s? Home cooks started blending regional flavors like Tex-Mex or BBQ into their creamy pasta bases—and the trend hasn’t stopped since. Taco Mac and Cheese Fiesta brings that same innovation to your dinner table.
Recipe Yield: 4–6 servings
INGREDIENTS
8 oz elbow macaroni
1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb ground beef
2 tbsp taco seasoning
1/2 cup water
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup chopped tomatoes
1/4 cup sliced green onions
1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional garnish)
1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips (optional topping)
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Cook the pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
3. Season the beef:
Stir in taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Make it cheesy:
Lower the heat and add the cooked pasta to the beef mixture. Stir in cheddar cheese, milk, and sour cream. Mix until everything is well combined and the cheese is melted into a creamy sauce.
5. Finish and garnish:
Turn off the heat. Stir in chopped tomatoes and green onions. Sprinkle with crushed tortilla chips and cilantro if using. Serve hot for a fiesta-worthy dinner!
Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. For ultra-creamy sauce, grate your cheddar fresh.
- Balance Your Heat: Want it spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne or a splash of hot sauce when browning the beef. Or keep it mild for picky eaters.
- Taco Toppings Galore: Think outside the box—add diced avocado, jalapeño slices, or a drizzle of chipotle ranch to elevate the flavor and add crunch.
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