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Home » Recipes » Entrees

Velveeta Taco Mac and Cheese

Published: Jul 18, 2022 · Modified: Jan 29, 2023 by Bowl Me Over · 37 Comments

You'll love this easy chili mac. It's the ultimate comfort food recipe and this cheesy pasta is a meal the whole family will love!
Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

This 30 minute Velveeta Taco Mac and Cheese Recipe is a family favorite! Filled with ground beef, onion, chili beans and tomatoes, it really has it all!

If you're a fan of noodles and beef, next time try this easy recipe for creamy ground beef noodle casserole next, it's delicious!

A heaping bowl of cheesy chili Mac n Cheese with a spoon taking a big scoop.
Taco Mac and Cheese
Jump to:
  • ❤️ Why you'll love this recipe  
  • 🗒️ Ingredients
  • ⏲️  Instructions 
  • 🙋‍♀️ FAQ's
  • 🔪 Equipment
  • 👍 Tips
  • 📓 Variations
  • Storage
  • Serving suggestions
  • Related recipes
  • Chili Mac and Cheese

❤️ Why you'll love this recipe  

It's a combination of two of the best things! Taco Macaroni and Cheese. Pure comfort food bliss. It only takes 30 minutes to make so it's quick and easy. And the best thing? This one-Pot Chili Mac is a great recipe and a meal even the pickiest eater will enjoy!

Like the Big Mac Casserole, this is one of our favorite easy weeknight dinners. The whole family, kids big & small will stand in line for a second helping and all will clean their plates!

🗒️ Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you'll need to make this recipe.
Ingredients needed for the Mexican Mac Chili Recipe

For the exact measurements for the Velveeta Shells and Cheese with Ground Beef, please refer to the recipe card at the bottom of this post. 

  • onion and red bell peppers - the onion and pepper start caramelizing and building the flavors for this meal.
  • garlic powder or one clove fresh minced garlic.
  • lean ground beef - you can substitute with ground chicken or ground turkey.
  • red kidney beans, black beans, pinto or cannelloni beans
  • fire roasted diced tomatoes - canned tomatoes work great here! Rotel would also be delicious with the added spices!
  • beef broth or chicken broth - low sodium is preferred.
  • elbow macaroni  - really you use any type of small uncooked pasta.
  • velveeta cheese - no velveeta? Use leftover queso, you can also make your own homemade cheddar cheese sauce with shredded cheese and cream cheese.
  • here are the spices for the chili seasoning - salt, black pepper, sweet paprika, chili powder, cumin. If you prefer more heat, spice it up with a good pinch of cayenne pepper!

⏲️  Instructions 

Step by step photos showing how to make Chili Mac n Cheese. With print overlay.
Here's how easy it is to make this delicious Chili Mac Recipe!

This is an overview of the instructions. For the complete directions for the Chili Mac Velveeta just scroll down to the bottom!

  1. In a large dutch oven, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped red onion & bell pepper. Saute for about 5 minutes until the veggies start to soften.
  2. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Then add the hamburger meat. Cook ground beef, breaking it up, stir until browned. Drain the fat.
  3. Drain the kidney beans add them to the stock pot along with the can of fire roasted tomatoes.
  4. Add all of the spices salt, pepper, paprika, chili powder and cumin. Stir well to combine.
  5. Next add the beef broth and increase the heat to high and bring to a boil. When it comes to a boil add the pasta and velveeta cheese. Return to a boil over medium-high heat and set the timer for 7 minutes.
  6. Stir the cheese mixture constantly during the entire 7 minutes. If you don't the cheese will clump together and stick to the bottom of the pan! Once it gets a good boil going, reduce the heat to medium. It will thicken and become creamy and cheesy.
  7. Test the pasta, if it's not done, continue stirring until the pasta is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
  8. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions or cilantro - YUM!

🙋‍♀️ FAQ's

Is there a good substitute for Velveeta cheese?

Jarred or leftover Queso or canned cheese soup is a great substitute for Velveeta.

How is Velveeta different from cheese?

Velveeta is a processed cheese that is smooth and creamy. It has a softer texture than non-processed cheese. What makes it easy to use in this recipe is that it won't clump and melted smoothly.

What kicks Mac and Cheese up a notch?

Bacon or salty ham! It does make everything taste better, right?!! Also a good shake of hot sauce, will up the spiciness. Substituting Rotel for fire roasted tomatoes will also add a nice bit of heat!

Chili Mac in white bowl.

🔪 Equipment

The following are affiliate links. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

  • For this recipe I use a Dutch oven, though a large skillet will work as well.
  • You'll also need a wooden spoon. This set is great as it includes a spoon, scraper and slotted spoon.

👍 Tips

Be sure to continue stirring the pasta the entire time it's cooking.

Because you're mixing everything in one pot if you walk away or let it sit, you take the chance of it sticking or scorching on the bottom of the pan.

📓 Variations

No kidney beans? Use black beans or pinto beans! In a pinch you can even use a can of store-bought chili with beans.

Add a cup of frozen corn when you stir in the cheese. It adds a lot and gives it crispy crunch!

A can of green chiles or diced red peppers are a great addition as well.

No beans? Use leftover chili or a coupe cans of your favorite chili.

Velveeta Chili Mac is such a great meal, I think you'll really love it!!

Storage

Allow to cool completely and store leftovers in an airtight container.

Extras freeze well! Again store in an airtight container and free up to three months.

Dutch Oven filled with cheesy chili Mac with serving spoon.
You're going to enjoy this hearty chili Mac recipe!

Serving suggestions

  • Serve it with steam green beans in microwave - so easy and always delicious! A fresh garden salad would also be a great choice!
  • Keep it simple and serve with a bag of tortilla chips!
  • If you have some time on your hands (and you will because this meal is so quick and easy to make!) Make a loaf of this wonderful garlic bread recipe. Oooh the aroma coming from the oven while it's baking!

Now my mouth is watering - what a great one pot meal and an easy weeknight dinner!

Related recipes

Pasta is such a great meal and economical as well! I know you'll love Velveeta Chili Mac. Here are more of my favorite comfort foods and one-pot meals I think you'll really enjoy!

  • This Taco Spaghetti Recipe is another quick and easy meal that is sure to please! It's creamy, filled with taco meat and topped with cheese.
  • Take taco Tuesday to the next level when you use this ground beef taco meat recipe to make Taco Salad Casserole! And start the party with Taco Dip with Ground Beef - it is SO good!
  • Salisbury Steak is a delicious recipe! It's so easy and because it's made with French Onion Soup mix, it makes its own gravy!
  • Creamy pasta with a cheese sauce makes this recipe for Rotel Chicken Spaghetti one delicious meal! I hope you give it a try soon!
  • If you love a great pasta noodle dish, then make sure you try Cheesy Beef Noodle Casserole. Even the littles will love this meal, speaking from experience here! I got two thumbs up from a 2 year old! Also a great beefy meal, it is super cheesy and flavorful without the heat.
  • What's not to love about this amazing Cowboy Casserole - topped with tater tots, it's AMAZING!
  • One of my favorites is Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole. It's all the delicious flavors of a traditional stuffed bell pepper, without all the fussy prep because it's in casserole form. It's delicious!
Chili Mac n Cheese in Dutch oven with a scoop on a wooden spoon.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
5 from 12 votes

Chili Mac and Cheese

You'll love this easy chili mac. It's the ultimate comfort food recipe and this cheesy pasta is a meal the whole family will love!
Prevent your screen from going dark
Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Total Time30 mins
Course: Lunch or Dinner
Cuisine: American
Servings: 6
Calories: 351kcal
Author: Deb Clark
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ingredients

  • ½ onion diced
  • ½ red bell pepper diced
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¾ pound ground beef
  • 1 can kidney beans
  • 14.5 ounce fire roasted tomatoes
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • ½ teaspoon sweet paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoon cumin
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup elbow macaroni dried
  • 1 cup velveeta cheese cubed

I earn a commission from Instacart from qualifying purchases.

Instructions

  • In a large heavy bottom pot over medium heat begin by heating the olive oil. When it is hot, add the chopped red onion & bell pepper. Saute for about 5 minutes until the veggies start to soften.
  • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  • Next add the ground beef, breaking it up, stir until browned. Drain the fat.
  • Drain the kidney beans add them to the stock pot along with the can of fire roasted tomatoes.
  • Season by adding all of the spices salt, pepper, paprika, chili powder and cumin. Stir well to combine.
  • Pour in the beef broth and increase the heat to high. Bring the ground meat mixture to a boil then add the pasta and velveeta cheese.
  • Return to a boil over medium high heat and set the timer for 7 minutes. Stir constantly during the entire 7 minutes.
  • Once it gets a good boil going, reduce the heat to medium. It will thicken and become creamy and cheesy.
  • If the pasta isn't cooked after seven minutes, just continue to stir and cook until it is done.

Notes

Don't forget to stir the pasta the entire time it's cooking. This will keep it from sticking on the bottom and scorching. It will also help the pasta release starches to help thicken the Velveeta Chili Mac.

Nutrition

Calories: 351kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 56mg | Sodium: 1276mg | Potassium: 434mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 1170IU | Vitamin C: 14.7mg | Calcium: 275mg | Iron: 2.5mg
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About Bowl Me Over

Welcome to Bowl Me Over! My name is Debra and I send warm greetings from sunny California. I am a serious foodie – I’ve been known as the go-to girl in our family for years, catering weddings and anniversary parties. In the summer I help cook mountains of food for our family reunions. Often times things I create end up in a bowl, hence the name Bowl Me Over! Let's stay connected, you can email me at [email protected] and find me on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Tracey

    April 11, 2022 at 4:27 pm

    5 stars
    Making use of what was in the pantry, I substituted a can of regular diced tomatoes, queso blanco velveeta, and rotini noodles. It was delicious!

    Reply
    • Bowl Me Over

      April 11, 2022 at 4:28 pm

      That sounds fabulous Tracey - so wishing that was for dinner here tonight, great job!!

      Reply
  2. Julie

    October 16, 2021 at 11:30 am

    5 stars
    I grew up eating the box variety but this homemade version is delicious! So easy to put together and the company devours it every time.

    Reply
  3. Ross

    July 18, 2021 at 8:19 am

    The recipe calls for 1 Cup of cubed Velveeta. I wish the author would have given a weight. Easier to put some waxed paper on a kitchen scale and dole out the correct amount of the sticky product.

    Reply
    • Bowl Me Over

      July 20, 2021 at 9:52 am

      Great suggestion Ross!

      Reply
  4. swathi

    January 17, 2016 at 4:47 pm

    Your chili mac and cheese looks delicious, thanks for sharing with Hearth and soul blog hop, pinning and tweeting.

    Reply
    • Bowl Me Over

      January 17, 2016 at 7:39 pm

      Thank you so much Swathi - I always enjoy your great party and appreciate all the support you send my way!

      Reply
  5. Justine @ full belly sisters

    January 08, 2016 at 1:42 pm

    Super yummy comfort food, I love it!

    Reply
    • Bowl Me Over

      January 08, 2016 at 1:52 pm

      Thanks Justine - I hope you give it a try!

      Reply
  6. Tara

    January 08, 2016 at 8:46 am

    5 stars
    Great combo, just love this, so comforting for winter!!

    Reply
    • Bowl Me Over

      January 08, 2016 at 1:53 pm

      So true, love my winter-time meals!

      Reply
  7. Katerina

    January 08, 2016 at 12:07 am

    I love how you combined two very famous and beloved dishes! The result is amazing!

    Reply
    • Bowl Me Over

      January 08, 2016 at 1:55 pm

      Thank you, this is one of my hubby's favorite meals Katerina!

      Reply
  8. Kristen

    January 07, 2016 at 8:08 pm

    5 stars
    my kids would eat this up!

    Reply
    • Bowl Me Over

      January 08, 2016 at 1:56 pm

      Kid tested, hubby approved! 😀 Thanks for stopping by Kristen!

      Reply
  9. Colleen

    January 07, 2016 at 7:42 pm

    This looks so luscious and wonderful! We aren't too keen on velveeta in my house though...do you think cheddar would work out ok? Or maybe a mixture of cheddar and another cheese?

    Reply
    • Bowl Me Over

      January 08, 2016 at 1:57 pm

      Absolutely, I'd try cheddar and maybe Monterey Jack cheese? They melt so well together. Let me know if you give it a try, love to hear how your version comes out!

      Reply
  10. Joanne/WineLady Cooks

    January 07, 2016 at 7:11 pm

    5 stars
    Any recipe that is 30 minutes or less is on my must make list. Your chili mac and cheese is just what we are looking for during this chilly weather.

    Reply
    • Bowl Me Over

      January 08, 2016 at 1:57 pm

      Awesome, I hope you give it a try Joanne!

      Reply
  11. Manila Spoon (Abby)

    January 07, 2016 at 6:43 pm

    5 stars
    Comfort food at its best! How can you say no to this? I certainly can't!!!

    Reply
    • Bowl Me Over

      January 08, 2016 at 2:00 pm

      Yum, yum, yum!!! Thanks Abby!

      Reply
  12. Linda (Meal Planning Maven)

    January 07, 2016 at 6:09 pm

    5 stars
    My kids and grandkids will go crazy for this dish as their two favorite dinners are chili and mac 'n cheese! Thank you for sharing!

    Reply
    • Bowl Me Over

      January 08, 2016 at 2:01 pm

      It would be a home-run Linda, the kids would love it! 😀

      Reply
  13. KC the Kitchen Chopper

    January 07, 2016 at 4:16 pm

    Mac and cheese is a crowd pleaser, for sure. This would be perfect on a Super Bowl buffet.

    Reply
    • Bowl Me Over

      January 08, 2016 at 2:04 pm

      Dang, that's a GREAT idea KC - though this year's party will probably just be my hubby and me - oh well, more for us! 😉

      Reply
  14. [email protected]

    January 07, 2016 at 3:00 pm

    5 stars
    Great comfort foods and delicious

    Reply
    • Bowl Me Over

      January 07, 2016 at 3:01 pm

      Thanks Janette!

      Reply
  15. Kelly @ TastingPage

    January 07, 2016 at 2:53 pm

    Talk about a winning combination! Putting together mac and cheese with chili - brilliant!

    Reply
    • Bowl Me Over

      January 07, 2016 at 3:03 pm

      Thank you! Wait until you try it Kelly it's mighty tasty!!!

      Reply
  16. Debi at Life Currents

    January 07, 2016 at 2:46 pm

    Your chili mac looks so good. It's one of my husband's favorites that he asks for all the time. I'd like to try your recipe soon. I like that it has some veggies in it. My recipe only has the chili (which I use a vegetarian one). thanks for the recipe.

    Reply
    • Bowl Me Over

      January 07, 2016 at 3:04 pm

      I try to sneak in veggies whenever I can and this recipe needed some "healthy" in it 😀 Thanks Debi - always appreciate hearing from you!

      Reply
  17. Del's cooking twist

    January 07, 2016 at 2:30 pm

    The perfect comfort food for winter. Looks delish!

    Reply
    • Bowl Me Over

      January 07, 2016 at 2:35 pm

      Thanks Del!!

      Reply
  18. Diane

    January 07, 2016 at 2:28 pm

    5 stars
    I'm pretty sure this is perfect timing to release this mega comforting chili!! On cold winter nights, cozying up to a bowl of this would make my grandkids and menfolk all kinds of happy! Lol. You ate just like we did as kids. All the family parties we kids had a card table in the kitchen. Far far away from the formal dining room where the grownups blithely ignored the hollars and shouts. When we got too loud, they shut the kitchen door!!

    Reply
    • Bowl Me Over

      January 07, 2016 at 2:31 pm

      Hahaha! Isn't that funny, two peas in a pod aren't we? 😀 I hope you family enjoys this easy meal - thanks Diane for stopping by!

      Reply
  19. Platter Talk

    January 07, 2016 at 2:00 pm

    5 stars
    This recipe is clearly a trifecta. Mac n cheese with chili? Those two classics combined with a prep and make time of under 30 minutes all add up to a winner with a capital W! This is a fantastic idea and one our kids will love.

    Reply
    • Bowl Me Over

      January 07, 2016 at 2:32 pm

      Absolutely, I know the kids will really enjoy it, thank you!!

      Reply

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