Taco Mac and Cheese

Craving a quick, flavorful twist on mac and cheese? This Taco Mac and Cheese packs bold taco flavors into creamy, cheesy pasta—no meat needed. With taco seasoning, melty cheddar, and a touch of salsa, it’s rich, zesty, and satisfying. It comes together in under 20 minutes with just a handful of ingredients. Perfect for a side dish, quick dinner, an easy lunch, or a comforting late-night snack. Whether you’re feeding the family or just treating yourself, this Tex-Mex-inspired dish is a simple, delicious go-to.

This one-pot wonder is not only easy to make but also endlessly customizable. You can keep your taco mac n cheese simple or mix in black beans, corn, or diced bell peppers for extra texture and flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy the taste of tacos without the mess of assembling them! Serve it as a standalone meal or pair it with a side of tortilla chips for a fun, dip-like experience.

Why You’ll Love This Taco Mac and Cheese

• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes with minimal prep.
• Few Ingredients – Just macaroni, cheese, milk, taco seasoning, and optional salsa.
• Meat-Free & Customizable – Perfect for vegetarians, with easy add-ins like beans or veggies.
• Creamy & Flavorful – The perfect balance of cheesy comfort and taco-inspired spice.

Swaggy Eats

Taco Mac and Cheese

This quick and easy Taco Mac and Cheese blends cheesy comfort with bold taco flavors—made with just a few ingredients and ready in minutes!

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: dinner, Lunch, Side Dish

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 320

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
• ¼ cup milk
• 2 tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp cumin
• ¼ tsp onion powder
• ¾ tsp garlic powder
• ⅛ tsp black pepper
• ¼ cup salsa (optional, for extra flavor)

Method

 

1. Cook: macaroni according to package instructions; drain and return to the pot.
2. In a small bowl: add all spices to make a taco seasoning
3. Stir in milk, cheese, and taco seasoning
4. Mix well over low heat until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.
5. Add salsa if desired and mix again.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!

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