A creamy, cheesy dish combines all your favorite taco flavors in one easy meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a comforting twist on classic mac and cheese that the whole family will love.
Prep Time15 min
Cook Time46 min
Total Time1 hr 1 min
Difficulty
Hard
Smart Cooking Tips
Use sharp cheddar for a richer cheese flavor.
Cook pasta just until al dente to avoid mushy texture.
Add taco seasoning gradually and taste as you go to control the spice level.
Ingredients
0/9
Why Everyone Loves This Recipe
This dish combines the creamy comfort of mac and cheese with the bold flavors of tacos. It’s quick to make and perfect for busy weeknights. Everyone loves how cheesy and satisfying it is, with just the right amount of spice.
Step 1
Gently heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks, until it’s no longer pink—about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain off any excess grease. Then stir in the salsa, corn, and taco seasoning, and season everything with a little salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2
While the beef mixture simmers, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the pasta, and cook it until it’s just tender but still has a little bite, usually around 10 to 12 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 3
Mix the cooked pasta with the beef mixture, Colby-Jack cheese, and chopped green onions right in a 9x13-inch casserole dish. Sprinkle the Cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Step 4
Pop the dish into the oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is nicely melted and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
289
people cooked this recipe
ByDavid Brown
David shares approachable recipes, helpful cooking tips, and simple meal ideas.
Simple Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of fresh salsa or guacamole to add brightness. A simple green salad or steamed veggies can balance the richness. For extra crunch, sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top before serving.
How To Store For Later
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy. Avoid freezing as the cheese sauce may separate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute shell pasta with elbow macaroni or any small pasta shape you prefer.
How spicy is the dish with the taco seasoning?
It has a mild to medium spice level, but you can adjust by using less seasoning or choosing a mild blend.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it a day ahead and refrigerate before baking, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Is it necessary to drain the grease from the cooked ground beef?
Yes, draining excess grease helps keep the dish from being too oily.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese for convenience?
Absolutely, pre-shredded cheese works fine, but freshly shredded cheese may melt better.
What can I substitute for salsa if I don’t have any?
You can use diced tomatoes with a bit of chili powder or a mild enchilada sauce as alternatives.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, replace the ground beef with beans or a plant-based meat substitute.
How long can leftovers be stored?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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