Five-ingredient Mac and Cheese Taco Beef Casserole. An easy, fast, and low-cost dinner prepared using elbow macaroni, ground beef, diced tomatoes, green chiles, taco seasoning, and queso. A must-try for fans of mac and cheese and queso!
This wonderful Queso Macaroni and Cheese with Taco Beef comes together nicely, and it’s packed with flavor and kick. This family-friendly dish comes together quickly with only 5 easy ingredients. This casserole is ideal for hectic weeknights, football days, and other occasions.
Make sure to try this fantastic dish on your next Taco Tuesday!
To Make Queso Mac and Cheese Taco Beef Casserole
Whip up this scrumptious casserole in under thirty minutes!
What you need:
- Lean ground beef
- Elbow macaroni
- Taco seasoning (or use a homemade blend)
- Rotel
- Jar of your favorite queso
- Water
To make this recipe gluten-free (you should use these ingredients instead):
- Use gluten-free elbow macaroni such as Barilla.
- Not all taco seasonings are free of gluten. Some contain hidden sources of gluten in the form of wheat flour or yeast extract. Always check the label before buying, or use homemade.
Steps To Make Mac and Cheese Taco Beef Casserole
Step 1: Cook elbow macaroni following the package instructions, then thoroughly drain.
Step 2: In a large pan over medium heat, brown and crumble the ground beef until cooked through, then drain the excess grease.
Step 3: The next step is to add water and taco seasoning to the beef and stir until combined.
This will take another 4 minutes.
Step 4: Mix in the Rotel, then reduce the heat to a low simmer.
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Step 5: Finally, stir in the cooked macaroni noodles and queso (heated according to package directions).
Gently combining the queso and noodles with the meat until thoroughly incorporated.
The final result should look like this:
Looks yummy? Enjoy a delicious family meal with this Mac and Cheese Taco Beef Casserole! Layers of creamy cheese, beef, and tacos come together in one tasty dish. Perfect for any night of the week!
Consider serving the casserole with taco or hot sauce if you’re feeling adventurous. Topping your tacos with tomatoes, chopped lettuce, onions, jalapenos, sour cream, and whatever else you like is a great idea!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this meal on the spicier side?
In terms of heat, this meal is not very intense, but it does have some spice to it. This recipe is flexible enough to use whatever queso you prefer, at any desired heat level. If you choose, you may skip the Rotel as well (diced tomatoes and green chiles).
Can ground beef be substituted?
Yes. You can substitute ground poultry such as turkey or chicken, or omit the meat entirely.
Queso of what variety?
You may either buy your preferred brand or prepare it yourself.
Is it okay if I switch up the pasta?
You may use penne, shells, or any other kind of pasta you choose, just be sure you measure it out to the same quantity.
Which side dish would complement this mac & cheese best?
This is delicious with a side of chips, salsa, guacamole, and a margarita.
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<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Queso Mac and Cheese Taco Beef Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 packet of your favorite taco seasoning - 1 oz.
- 16 oz. box of elbow macaroni - prepared following the package directions
- 15 oz. jar of your favorite queso heated following the directions on the jar - or use homemade
- ⅔ c. water
- 10 oz. can of Rotel - diced tomatoes and green chiles
Instructions
- Cook elbow macaroni as directed on the package and then thoroughly drain.
- Ground beef should be browned and broken up in a large pan over medium heat until thoroughly cooked, then drained.
- Mix in the water and taco seasoning, then keep cooking for another 4 minutes. Blend in the Rotel and turn the beef's heat down to a gentle simmer.
- Lastly, stir in the cheese and macaroni that have been cooked separately, making sure everything is evenly distributed throughout the meat. Enjoy your meal!
Notes
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I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
