Taco Dinner Mac and Cheese

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Taco Tuesday just got a cheesy makeover. When you can't decide between Mexican or macaroni and cheese, this five-ingredient pasta dish is the best way to satisfy both cravings. Ground beef gives all the heartiness you need for a weeknight dinner meal. 

Taco Dinner Mac and Cheese
Photo: Southern Living
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
25 mins
Total Time:
40 mins
Yield:
4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 (8-ounce) package elbow macaroni

  • 1 pound ground beef

  • 1 (1.25-ounce) envelope reduced-sodium taco seasoning mix

  • 3/4 cup water

  • 2 tablespoons butter

  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

  • 2 cups milk

  • 1 (8-ounce) block sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded

  • Toppings: chopped tomato, avocado, and green onions, sour cream, salsa

Directions

  1. Prepare pasta according to package directions. Drain and keep warm.

  2. Brown ground beef in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until no longer pink. Drain.

  3. Return beef to skillet; stir in taco seasoning mix and 3/4 cup water. Bring to a boil, and cook, stirring occasionally, 7 minutes or until most of the liquid evaporates. Remove beef mixture from heat.

  4. Melt butter in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium-low heat; whisk in flour until smooth. Cook, whisking constantly, 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk, and cook, whisking constantly, 5 minutes or until thickened. Remove from heat.

  5. Stir in 1 1/2 cups cheese, stirring until melted. Stir in cooked pasta and beef mixture. Sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup cheese. Serve immediately with desired toppings.

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