Taco Macaroni and Cheese Skillet

Kittencalskitchen's Note:

If you like more spice add in 1-2 teaspoons dryed chili flakes when browning the beef. You can use ground chicken or turkey in place of beef.

• Total Time: 55 mins
• Prep Time: 30 mins
• Cook Time: 25 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 4

• 1 (8 ounce) package macaroni noodles , cooked
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion , finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh minced garlic
• 1 small green bell pepper , seeded and chopped
• ¼ cup parmesan cheese
• salt and pepper
• 1 (1 ¼ ounce) package taco seasoning mix (can use 2 packages if desired)
• ¾ cup water
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups half-and-half cream (or use full-fat milk)
• 2 ½ cups old cheddar cheese , shredded and divided

TOPPINGS

• chopped tomato
• green onion
• sour cream
• salsa

Directions:

1. In a large skillet brown the ground beef with onions, garlic and green bell pepper until no longer pink, season with salt and pepper; drain and add in the Parmesan cheese.
2. Stir in the taco seasoning mix and 3/4 cup water; bring to a boil and cook stirring occasionally (about 7-8 minutes or until most of the liquid has evaporated) remove from heat.
3. In a large saucepan melt butter over medium-low heat; whisk in flour until smooth, cook whisking constantly for 2 minutes.
4. Gradually whisk in milk; cook whisking constantly for about 4 minutes or until thickened; remove from heat.
5. Stir in 1-1/2 cups cheddar cheese, stirring until melted.
6. Stir in the cooked pasta and beef mixture; mix to combine and cook just until heated through (about 3 minutes).
7. Sprinkle with remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese and serve.
8. Serve immediately with desired toppings.
9. Delicious!

Reviews

[pattikay in L.A.]

This worked well for my family - I was able to make it in pieces ahead of time and then my son put it all together for dinner when I was out of town. Quick and tasty. Thanks for posting!

[Kim D.]

My husband and I really liked this dish. It was very easy to make - perfect for a busy week night. I followed the directions exactly and didn't make any changes. Thanks for posting.

[Hadiknown]

This turned out good. Quite tasty. Spices were better the second day after reheating. Will make again. Thanks!