Taco Mac and Cheese is the ultimate fusion of two comfort food classics! This recipe brings together the bold, smoky spices of tacos with the rich, creamy goodness of mac and cheese. Made with lean ground beef, a homemade taco seasoning, and a protein-packed cottage cheese sauce, this dish is both indulgent and nutritious. Plus, it’s gluten-free when made with chickpea pasta, making it a great option for those looking for a balanced yet satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pan dish is ready in just 20 minutes! The combination of melted cheddar, tender pasta, and seasoned beef creates an irresistible flavor that the whole family will love. Whether you top it with jalapeños, crushed tortilla chips, or fresh cilantro, this dish is guaranteed to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try, and let Taco Tuesday take on a whole new meaning!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef (96/4)
- 8 oz Banza Chickpea Pasta Elbows (weighed uncooked)
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 8 oz low-fat cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup medium spice salsa
- 1/4 cup whole milk (or sub 2%)
- 1/2 cup mild cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
Taco Seasoning:
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1.5 tbsp ground cumin
- 1/4 cup water
Directions:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions.
- While the pasta cooks, brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it into bite-sized pieces.
- In a small bowl, mix all taco seasoning ingredients with 1/4 cup water to create a seasoning paste.
- Once the beef is browned, add the taco seasoning mix and stir to coat. Reduce to a simmer.
- Add the chopped bell peppers and let simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Blend the cottage cheese in a food processor or blender until completely smooth.
- Mix the blended cottage cheese with salsa, milk, and flour until well combined.
- Add the cheese sauce, mild cheddar, and sharp cheddar to the skillet with the beef and bell peppers. Stir until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the meat and cheese mixture. Mix everything together well.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, jalapeños, or crushed tortilla chips.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 384 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Why Taco Mac and Cheese is a Must-Try Recipe
Taco Mac and Cheese is more than just a fun, creative dish it’s a versatile, nutritious, and easy-to-make meal that works well for various occasions. Here are a few reasons why this recipe deserves a spot on your dinner rotation:
1. High in Protein Without Sacrificing Flavor
One of the standout features of this dish is its impressive protein content. By using lean ground beef and chickpea-based pasta, you get a protein-packed meal with approximately 39 grams per serving. The addition of cottage cheese in the sauce might seem unusual at first, but once blended, it becomes a smooth, creamy base that seamlessly incorporates into the dish, making it both nutritious and delicious.
2. Quick and Easy – Ready in 20 Minutes
Many people assume that making a homemade cheese sauce or seasoning from scratch takes time. However, this recipe proves that you don’t need hours in the kitchen to create a meal that tastes like it’s been simmering all day. From start to finish, Taco Mac and Cheese takes just 20 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights.
3. A Crowd-Pleaser for All Ages
Finding meals that both kids and adults will love can be a challenge, but this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s cheesy enough for kids to enjoy but flavorful and hearty enough for adults who crave something more robust. You can also customize the spice level by adjusting the taco seasoning or adding ingredients like jalapeños for an extra kick.
4. Customizable to Fit Different Diets
Taco Mac and Cheese can be easily adapted to fit various dietary needs. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, using chickpea pasta makes this dish naturally gluten-free. Those who prefer a lower-fat version can opt for ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. While the recipe is naturally dairy-rich, those who are lactose-intolerant can experiment with dairy-free cheese and alternative milk options.
5. Great for Meal Prep and Leftovers
This dish reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep. If you prepare a larger batch, you can store portions in the refrigerator for up to four days. A simple splash of milk or beef broth while reheating will help restore the creamy texture. It also freezes well, so you can portion out servings and enjoy a homemade meal whenever the craving strikes.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
One of the best things about Taco Mac and Cheese is its adaptability. While the original recipe is fantastic on its own, you can easily switch things up to keep it interesting. Here are some fun ways to customize this dish:
1. Add More Vegetables
For an added boost of fiber and nutrients, consider incorporating more vegetables. Diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, zucchini, or even riced cauliflower can enhance the texture and add a fresh twist. Sautéed mushrooms also bring a rich umami flavor that complements the cheese sauce.
2. Try Different Proteins
Although ground beef gives this dish a classic taco flavor, you can swap it out for different proteins. Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes work well. Shredded rotisserie chicken or black beans can also be added for a different texture and taste.
3. Play with the Spice Level
If you love bold flavors, you can easily amp up the heat by adding diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce. For those who prefer a milder taste, reducing the chili powder and smoked paprika in the seasoning mix will make the dish more kid-friendly.
4. Add Toppings for Extra Crunch
Taco Mac and Cheese tastes amazing as-is, but adding toppings can take it to the next level. Crushed tortilla chips, crispy fried onions, or panko breadcrumbs add a delightful crunch. Fresh toppings like chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream can brighten up the dish.
5. Make it a One-Pot Meal
For ultimate convenience, you can make this recipe a true one-pot meal by cooking the pasta directly in the same skillet with the meat and cheese sauce. This not only reduces cleanup but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Nutritional Benefits of Taco Mac and Cheese
While mac and cheese is often viewed as an indulgent comfort food, this version provides a balance of macronutrients that make it a surprisingly well-rounded meal.
- Protein: The combination of ground beef, cottage cheese, and chickpea pasta makes this a high-protein dish that supports muscle maintenance and keeps you feeling full longer.
- Healthy Fats: Using reduced-fat cheese and lean beef keeps the fat content in check while still delivering the creamy, cheesy satisfaction you crave.
- Complex Carbohydrates: Chickpea pasta provides fiber-rich complex carbohydrates, which help with digestion and provide sustained energy.
- Micronutrients: Bell peppers contribute vitamin C and antioxidants, while spices like cumin and paprika offer anti-inflammatory benefits.
By making small adjustments, you can further tailor this dish to your dietary needs without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Conclusion:
Taco Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food mash-up that brings together the best elements of two beloved dishes. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold taco flavors while offering a high-protein twist that makes it both delicious and nutritious. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, meal prep, or a cozy night in, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.
With its quick preparation time, customizable ingredients, and satisfying taste, Taco Mac and Cheese is a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Try it for your next Taco Tuesday or any day you’re in the mood for something indulgent yet balanced. Once you take your first bite, you’ll understand why this dish is a must-have in your recipe collection!
