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Mac & Cheese Taco Casserole

This recipe brilliantly merges the comforting appeal of macaroni and cheese with the vibrant flavors of a taco into a hearty baked casserole. Featuring seasoned ground beef, tender vegetables, rich mac and cheese, chunky salsa, and a crispy tortilla chip and cheese topping, it's a satisfying and family-friendly meal perfect for any weeknight.
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Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Course: lunch/dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 8248.3
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 lb hamburg or ground beef
  • 1 green pepper
  • 0.25 cup onion
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1 cup chunky salsa
  • 2 packages macaroni and cheese dinner mix
  • 2 cups tortilla chips
  • 1 cup monteray jack cheese
  • 1.5 cups milk
  • 0.25 cup butter
  • 1 can black olives

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet For browning beef and sautéing vegetables.
  • 1 Large Pot For cooking macaroni.
  • 1 9x13 inch Casserole Dish For baking the casserole.
  • 1 Chef's Knife For dicing vegetables.
  • 1 Cutting Board For preparing ingredients safely.

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish.
  2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it apart. Drain any excess fat thoroughly.
  3. Add diced green pepper, onion, and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the chunky salsa.
  4. While the beef mixture cooks, prepare both packages of macaroni and cheese dinner mix according to package directions, using the specified milk and butter. Cook macaroni until al dente.
  5. Combine the cooked macaroni and cheese with the seasoned beef and vegetable mixture in the skillet, mixing well.
  6. Spread half of the tortilla chips evenly in the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
  7. Spoon the macaroni and cheese taco mixture over the layer of tortilla chips.
  8. Top with the remaining tortilla chips, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and sliced black olives.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
  10. Remove from the oven and let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and set.

Notes

1. Ensure thorough draining of fat from the ground beef for optimal texture and flavor, preventing a greasy casserole. Season the beef with a pinch of chili powder or cumin for a more authentic 'taco' profile. 2. Cook the macaroni al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven, preventing it from becoming mushy. 3. Using a good quality, chunky salsa significantly elevates the dish's flavor. For a richer cheese profile, consider blending sharp cheddar with Monterey Jack. 4. Layer some crushed tortilla chips in the middle of the casserole for added textural contrast, beyond just the top layer.