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Taco Mac and Cheese

One-Pot Taco Mac and Cheese Recipe

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 680
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp taco seasoning
  • 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 4 oz cream cheese, cubed
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Method
 

  1. Cook beef in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add onion and garlic, cook until soft, 2-3 minutes. Drain excess fat.
  2. Stir in taco seasoning, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Scrape up browned bits and bring to a boil.
  3. Add macaroni, reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
  4. Remove from heat. Stir in cream cheese and cheddar until smooth and melted. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Serve hot with desired toppings.

Notes

If you make homemade taco seasoning, use 2 teaspoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon oregano, and ¼ teaspoon garlic powder. The cream cheese adds a velvety finish but is optional; the dish still works without it.