Description

Taco Macaroni is a delightful dish combining ground beef, creamy cheeses, and pasta, perfect for a quick and satisfying homemade meal. Its rich flavors and simple preparation make it a favorite for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 large yellow onion, finely diced
1 pound ground beef
2 teaspoons garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 packet (1 ounce / 3 tablespoons) taco seasoning, store-bought or homemade
1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as rotel), undrained
2 cups (16 ounces / 480 g) beef broth
¾ cup (178.5 g) heavy whipping cream
8 ounces medium shell pasta, uncooked
4 ounces cream cheese, diced
1 cup (113 g) mild cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup (113 g) monterey jack cheese, shredded
¼ cup (57.5 g) sour cream, plus more for garnish
cilantro, chopped for garnish
jalapeno, sliced for garnish

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Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened.
Add ground beef, breaking it apart while cooking until fully browned, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain excess grease.
Stir in garlic and tomato paste, cooking for 1 minute until combined.
Sprinkle in taco seasoning and then add diced tomatoes, beef broth, heavy cream, and uncooked pasta.
Mix everything together to ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
Bring to a low boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender, about 10 to 12 minutes.
Remove from heat once pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
Stir in cream cheese, cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and smooth.
Fold in sour cream until just combined. Serve immediately topped with cilantro, jalapenos, and sour cream.

Notes

Feel free to use ground turkey or chicken in place of beef for a lighter option.
Add your favorite veggies, like bell peppers or corn, to enhance the dish.
For extra spice, include more jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 680
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 850mg
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 100mg