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Taco mac and cheese in a cast iron skillet with a wooden spoon.
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5 from 1 vote

Taco Mac and Cheese

Make Taco Mac and Cheese in just 30 minutes! This simple one-pan dish blends cheesy pasta with taco-seasoned beef for a comforting, flavorful, family-friendly dinner.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Keyword: Taco Mac and Cheese
Servings: 6
Calories: 498kcal
Author: Ryan Allen

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • ½ yellow onion diced
  • 2 teaspoons garlic minced
  • 10.5 ounce can of condensed cheddar cheese soup
  • 12 ounce can of evaporated milk
  • 1 taco seasoning
  • 1 Rotel tomatoes with green chilies undrained
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 ½ cups pasta shells uncooked
  • 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese shredded

Instructions

  • In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown ground beef, onions, and garlic. Cook until no pink remains, and drain off excess grease.
  • Add cheddar cheese soup, evaporated milk, taco seasoning, Rotel, and beef broth. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.
  • Add the pasta shells and stir to combine. Then, lower the heat to low, cover, and stir occasionally for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
  • Uncover and stir in cheese before serving.

Notes

  • Swap the beef: Feel free to use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version that’s just as tasty.
  • Customize the spice level: Use mild or hot Rotel, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to adjust the heat to your liking.
  • Don’t skip the drain: After browning the beef, drain the excess grease to keep the dish from turning oily.
  • Boost the flavor: Stir in a handful of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice just before serving for a fresh twist.

Nutrition

Calories: 498kcal | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 98mg | Sodium: 868mg | Potassium: 757mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 635IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 389mg | Iron: 2mg