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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
3. Add Taco Seasoning and Tomatoes:
- Stir in the taco seasoning and water, ensuring the beef mixture is evenly coated. Add the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (don’t drain the liquid). Stir everything together.
4. Stir in the Pasta:
- Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the skillet and mix it into the beef and tomato mixture. Pour in an additional cup of water to help the pasta cook. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, uncovered, for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the macaroni is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
5. Add the Cheese:
- Once the pasta is cooked, sprinkle the cheddar cheese and Mexican blend cheese over the top. Stir until the cheese is melted and the dish is creamy.
- If desired, add sour cream to make it even creamier and tangy.
6. Serve and Garnish:
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the cheesy taco macaroni hot, and top with optional garnishes like chopped green onions, salsa, or crushed tortilla chips for extra flavor and crunch.
Tips for Success
- Use Leftover Taco Meat: If you have leftover taco meat, this is a great way to repurpose it into a whole new dish.
- Make it Spicy: For a spicier version, add a few dashes of hot sauce, jalapeños, or use spicy taco seasoning.
- Add Veggies: Throw in some bell peppers, corn, or even black beans for added nutrition and flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Why This Recipe Works
The beauty of Cheesy Taco Macaroni Skillet lies in its simplicity and versatility. The savory taco seasoning pairs beautifully with the tender macaroni and zesty tomatoes, while the melting cheese creates a comforting, creamy finish. It’s a dish that delivers big flavors with minimal effort, making it a perfect weeknight go-to.
Conclusion
Cheesy Taco Macaroni Skillet is the kind of recipe that brings comfort, convenience, and satisfaction to the table all in one. The blend of taco spices, tender pasta, and gooey cheese is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that works for busy families, parties, or whenever you’re craving something cheesy and delicious.
Give this dish a try, and you’ll have a new favorite meal on your hands!
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