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Taco Mac and Cheese

This is a one-pan dinner that combines taco night with mac and cheese - the ground beef cooks right in with the pasta so there's minimal cleanup.
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

Ingredients (~8-9 servings)

  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion diced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 1/2 packets taco seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni uncooked
  • 1 1/2 cups chunky salsa
  • 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 1/2 cups milk
  • 2 1/4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 3 Tbsp cream cheese

Instructions

  • Cooling/Resting Time: 0 minutes
  • Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat and cook diced onion for 3-4 minutes until softened.
  • Add minced garlic and cook 30-60 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
  • Drain excess fat, then stir in taco seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  • Add uncooked macaroni, salsa, broth, and milk to the skillet and stir to submerge pasta completely.
  • Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook 10-12 minutes, stirring every couple of minutes to prevent sticking.
  • Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded cheddar and cream cheese until melted and smooth.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  • Serve immediately while hot and creamy.