This Taco Mac recipe is pure comfort food with a fun twist. It brings together everything people love about tacos—seasoned beef, bold spices, and cheesy goodness—with soft, creamy pasta. The result is a warm, satisfying meal that feels familiar but still exciting.
It’s a great option for busy nights when you want something filling without spending hours in the kitchen. Everything comes together in one pan, which also means fewer dishes to clean.
Why Taco Mac Works So Well
- Combines taco flavors with cheesy pasta
- One-pan meal, simple cleanup
- Kid-friendly and family-approved
- Easy to adjust spice and cheese level
This dish hits that perfect balance between savory, creamy, and slightly spicy.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 2 cups water or beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Mexican blend cheese
- Salt to taste
- Optional: chopped green onions or cilantro for topping
How to Make Taco Mac
Step 1: Cook the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
Sprinkle taco seasoning over the beef and stir well so the spices coat everything evenly.
Step 2: Add Pasta and Liquid
Add uncooked elbow macaroni to the pan. Pour in water or beef broth and milk. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle boil.
Reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
Step 3: Make It Cheesy
Once the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed, lower the heat. Add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
Stir until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Turn off the heat and let the Taco Mac sit for 2–3 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken slightly and coats the pasta perfectly.
Time Needed
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Taste & Texture
- Savory, well-seasoned beef
- Creamy, cheesy pasta
- Soft macaroni with rich taco spices
- Comforting without being complicated
Easy Variations
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef
- Add corn or black beans for extra texture
- Make it spicier with hot sauce or chili flakes
- Use pepper jack cheese for a bolder flavor
Serving Ideas
- Serve with a simple green salad
- Top with crushed tortilla chips for crunch
- Add a spoon of sour cream on top
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container
- Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days
- Reheat on the stove or microwave with a splash of milk
This Taco Mac recipe is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table. It’s warm, cheesy, full of bold flavors, and easy enough to make any night of the week—exactly what comfort food should be.
