Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that brings together the best of two worlds: the comfort of mac and cheese and the bold flavors of tacos! This Beefy Mac and Cheese Taco Bake is not just a meal; it’s a culinary adventure that will leave your family begging for seconds. With layers of cheesy goodness, seasoned beef, and a kick of salsa, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a fun weekend gathering. Ready to impress your guests and indulge in a hearty, satisfying dish? Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 package macaroni
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook until no pink remains, approximately 7-8 minutes.
- Drain excess fat from the beef, then return the skillet to the stove. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef and stir to combine thoroughly.
- Add the diced tomatoes and salsa to the seasoned beef, stirring to incorporate all ingredients. Simmer for 3-4 minutes to blend flavors.
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine milk, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Whisk until smooth and well blended.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the beef mixture, stirring to distribute evenly. Transfer the combined mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the beef and pasta, ensuring even coverage. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with slight golden edges.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with chopped cilantro, green onions, or additional sour cream.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the beef and cheese sauce a day in advance. Just assemble everything in the baking dish and pop it in the oven when you're ready to eat.
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! Add some sliced jalapeños for extra heat or crushed tortilla chips for a delightful crunch.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the dish to rest for 5 minutes after baking helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to serve.
- Use Quality Cheese: For the best flavor and meltability, opt for freshly shredded cheddar cheese instead of pre-packaged shredded cheese.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Add black beans, corn, or bell peppers to the beef mixture for added texture and nutrition.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your Beefy Mac and Cheese Taco Bake with a simple side salad or some guacamole to balance out the richness of the dish.
- Leftover Magic: This dish keeps well in the fridge, making it a great option for leftovers. Just reheat in the oven or microwave and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 85mg
