Introduction
If you’re on the hunt for a weeknight meal that combines the comforting flavors of macaroni and cheese with the zesty appeal of tacos, look no further! This Quick & Comforting Skillet Cheesy Taco Macaroni is the perfect fusion of two beloved dishes, delivering a hearty and satisfying experience in just one skillet.
In less than 30 minutes, you can have a creamy, cheesy pasta dish adorned with all your favorite taco toppings, making it a fantastic option for busy families or anyone who craves a cozy dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking to feed a crowd or simply indulge in a personal comfort classic, this recipe is bound to become a new favorite in your home. So, grab your skillet, and let’s dive into this deliciously cheesy adventure!
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow pasta
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning blend
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 2 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for serving)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the ground beef or turkey. Cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, for about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
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- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, which should take around 3-4 minutes.
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- Incorporate the taco seasoning mix, ensuring the meat and onion are well-coated. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to slightly toast the spices.
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- Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies along with the broth. Mix well to combine.
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- Bring the concoction to a gentle boil, then introduce the elbow pasta. Stir to make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid.
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- Lower the heat, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta reaches your preferred tenderness, stirring occasionally.
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- Once the pasta is fully cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed, mix in the frozen corn and black beans (if using).
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- Stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses into the skillet. Mix until the cheeses have melted and the mixture is creamy.
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- Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
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- Finish with a garnish of fresh cilantro before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 30 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Elbow Macaroni: 2 cups, uncooked
- Ground Beef or Turkey: 1 pound, lean
- Taco Seasoning: 1 packet (about 1 ounce)
- Diced Tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 ounces), with juices
- Chicken Broth: 2 cups
- Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, shredded (plus extra for topping)
- Cream Cheese: 4 ounces, softened
- Onion: 1 medium, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
- Fresh Cilantro: for garnish (optional)
- Jalapeños: sliced, for garnish (optional)
Baking Process
To make the Quick & Comforting Skillet Cheesy Taco Macaroni, follow these steps for a smooth and simple baking process that will yield a deliciously cheesy and satisfying dish:
Ingredients Preparation
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Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of macaroni (elbow, shells, or any small pasta) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Prepare the Taco Seasoning: If you’re using store-bought taco seasoning, measure out the desired amount (usually about 2 tablespoons). For a homemade version, mix equal parts chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne for a kick.
Cooking the Skillet Dish
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Start the Base: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add in your choice of ground meat (beef, turkey, or a plant-based alternative). Cook until browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces with a spatula.
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Add Aromatics: Once the meat is cooked through, stir in a diced onion, chopped bell pepper, or any other vegetables you like. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
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Mix in the Seasoning: Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, stirring to coat the meat and vegetables evenly. Add a splash of water or broth to help the flavors meld, cooking for an additional minute.
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Combine Ingredients: Stir in the drained pasta and mix well. Pour in a can of diced tomatoes (with juice) and a cup of broth (or water) to help bind everything together. Bring the mix to a simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend nicely.
Cheese Time!
- Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle in a generous amount of shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend) over the mixture. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it heat for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
Final Touches
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or your favorite toppings like sour cream and avocado. Serve hot directly from the skillet for a comforting, family-friendly meal that’s sure to please.
And there you have it! Your Quick & Comforting Skillet Cheesy Taco Macaroni is ready to be devoured. Enjoy this delicious one-pan dish that captures all the cozy, cheesy goodness in just a few simple steps!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Quick & Comforting Skillet Cheesy Taco Macaroni, consider these delightful serving suggestions:
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Fresh Toppings: Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro, diced green onions, or sliced jalapeños for a burst of flavor and color.
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Crushed Tortilla Chips: For a satisfying crunch, top your dish with some crushed tortilla chips. This adds both texture and an extra layer of flavor.
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Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can provide a creamy contrast and help balance the spiciness of the dish.
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Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices make for a delicious addition, bringing a fresh and rich flavor to your meal.
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Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges for a zesty squeeze that enhances the overall taste experience.
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Hot Sauce: For those who love a kick, offer a variety of hot sauces on the side so everyone can customize their serving to their desired heat level.
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Mixed Greens Salad: Pair your cheesy taco macaroni with a simple mixed greens salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to lighten up the meal.
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Garlic Bread: Serve with toasted garlic bread for a hearty, comforting side that complements the cheesy goodness of the macaroni.
Each of these suggestions can help you create a well-rounded meal, making your skillet cheesy taco macaroni even more enjoyable!
Conclusion
In just under 30 minutes, you can whip up this delightful Quick & Comforting Skillet Cheesy Taco Macaroni that the whole family will love. It perfectly combines the rich and savory flavors of a classic taco with the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese, making it a unique twist on two beloved dishes. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup for you!
Feel free to customize this dish with your choice of protein, beans, or even extra veggies to suit your family’s tastes. This recipe is versatile enough to adapt to any dietary preferences or ingredient availability. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a filling dish for a casual gathering, this cheesy taco macaroni is sure to become a fast favorite. So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the deliciousness! Happy cooking!
