If you love mac and cheese and tacos, why not combine them into one irresistible dish? Taco Mac and Cheese is the perfect comfort food mashup—creamy, cheesy pasta meets bold, zesty taco flavors. This easy one-pot meal is great for busy weeknights, potlucks, or game day gatherings.
In this article, we’ll cover:
✔ Why This Recipe Works – The best of both worlds!
✔ Step-by-Step Instructions – Foolproof creamy mac and cheese with taco flair.
✔ Customization Ideas – Make it vegetarian, spicier, or extra cheesy.
✔ Serving Suggestions – The best toppings and sides.
Why You’ll Love Taco Mac and Cheese
This dish takes classic mac and cheese to the next level by adding:
- Savory taco-seasoned beef (or a plant-based alternative)
- A creamy, cheesy sauce with a hint of salsa for tanginess
- Crunchy, fresh toppings like jalapeños, tomatoes, and tortilla chips
It’s easy to make in under 30 minutes, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Components
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or shells, rotini, or cavatappi)
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade blend)
- 2 tbsp butter (for the roux)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (to thicken the sauce)
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2% for creaminess)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp for best flavor)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or pepper jack (for meltability)
- ½ cup salsa (choose mild, medium, or hot)
- ½ cup sour cream (adds richness)
Optional Toppings
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced jalapeños
- Chopped cilantro
- Crushed tortilla chips
- Sliced green onions
- Avocado or guacamole
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Meat
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning and ½ cup water. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce
In the same pot (or a new one), melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until smooth. Cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded cheeses until fully melted and creamy.
4. Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta, taco meat, salsa, and sour cream to the cheese sauce. Stir well and heat through for 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve & Garnish
Spoon into bowls and top with your favorite taco toppings:
- Crunch: Tortilla chips or diced onions
- Freshness: Tomatoes, cilantro, avocado
- Heat: Jalapeños or hot sauce
Customization Ideas
Protein Swaps
- Vegetarian? Use black beans, lentils, or meatless crumbles.
- Lighter option? Ground turkey or chicken works great.
Cheese Variations
- Extra creamy? Add 2 oz cream cheese to the sauce.
- Spicy kick? Use pepper jack or a dash of cayenne.
Pasta Alternatives
- Gluten-free? Use GF pasta or cauliflower macaroni.
- Extra hearty? Try penne or rotini for more texture.
What to Serve with Taco Mac and Cheese
This dish is filling on its own, but you can pair it with:
- Side salad (with lime-cilantro dressing)
- Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
- Roasted veggies (bell peppers, corn, or zucchini)
- Mexican street corn (elote)
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Add a splash of milk before microwaving to keep it creamy.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months (thaw and reheat with extra cheese or milk).
Final Thoughts
Taco Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food mashup—easy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re feeding picky kids, hosting a party, or just craving something delicious, this recipe delivers every time.
Try it tonight and let us know your favorite toppings! 🌮🧀🔥
Would you like a slow cooker or baked version? Let me know, and I’d be happy to share more variations! 😊