This Taco Mac and Cheese with Rotel is so easy to put together the cheesy pasta paired with delicious taco meat and a can of Rotel tomatoes gives you a hearty comfort food that even the picky eaters will love.
Next time be sure to try the Chicken Spaghetti Recipe. It's one of the most popular recipes on the blog!
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Why you'll love this recipe
✔️ This recipe requires minimal basic ingredients and can be put together in under 30 minutes!
✔️ You only have to follow a few simple steps, which means that it's perfect for busy weeknights.
✔️ Plus, with the combination of tacos and mac and cheese the whole family will love it.
Ingredients
Please refer to the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post for the exact measurements.
- box mac and cheese
- lean ground beef
- tomato sauce
- Rotel diced tomatoes with green chiles
- taco seasoning mix
Instructions
This is an overview of the instructions. For complete directions, scroll down to the bottom.
- Prepare the macaroni and cheese according to the package instructions. Leave it in the large pot when you're done.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Cook until it's no longer pink. Drain excess grease.
- Add the taco seasoning along with the tomato sauce and Rotel. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook the taco beef mixture for 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens.
- Add the taco meat to the cooked pasta. Stir to combine.
Equipment
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- large pot or dutch oven
- large skillet
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FAQ's
I just follow the directions on the package, since you won't be cooking the pasta again, cook the pasta to the texture that your family prefers.
Yes, to prevent your meat from being greasy I always recommend that you drain the ground beef well before adding the taco seasoning.
My favorite mac and cheeses to use are Kraft Blue Box or Velveeta Shells and Cheese. But, you aren't limited to those options so feel free to get creative.
Deb's tips
- Feel free to get creative and use whatever type of mac and cheese your family prefers. However, the Kraft blue boxes, Velveeta Shells & Cheese, or even your own homemade mac and cheese will work just fine.
- My favorite garnishes for this taco pasta are sliced green onions or fresh cilantro. But, get creative and garnish with any of your favorite taco toppings.
- When reheating the leftovers if it seems a little dry, add a splash of beef broth or whole milk for some additional liquid.
Variations
- Not a fan of beef? No worries, you can swap the beef out for ground turkey or ground chicken depending on your preferences.
- Want to add some heat to your pasta? Then, add in some hot sauce, chili powder, or red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Need something on the mild side? Use milk Rotel tomatoes instead of the original for less spice.
Storage
Refrigerate - Store leftover taco pasta in an airtight container for up to four days.
Freezer - I don't recommend freezing this recipe as pasta does not freeze well. Don't worry though, you most likely won't have many leftovers, it's that good!
Reheat - Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring after each minute. Howver, you can also reheat it on the stovetop over low heat.
Related recipes
- The next time that you are looking to make something a little different for taco night then whip up this Taco Spaghetti. Not only is it full of taco flavor but it's a kid-friendly meal that can be prepared ahead.
- Stuffed Taco Shells are another fun alternative to take tacos in a unique direction. Plus, this recipe is easy to make and you can stuff them with whatever fillings you'd like!
- However, if you need a simple meal that you prep ahead to have ready to bake when you get home from work give this Cheesy Taco Casserole a try. I promise your entire family will rave about this cheesy dish.
Serve with
- This Mexican Coleslaw is the perfect side dish to pair with this delicious meal. Not only is it creamy and refreshing but it's also so easy to make so you don't have to spend a lot of time in the kitchen.
- If you enjoy sipping on an adult beverage with your meal, then this Mexican Martini is the perfect accompaniment. And, it's also sweet and tart and sure to please everyone at the table.
- Want something light and refreshing to pair with this hearty meal? This Mexican Fruit Salad is just what you are looking for, not only is it bursting with flavor but you don't even have to turn on the stove to make it.
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If you love this recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating!
Taco Mac and Cheese with Rotel
Equipment
- 1 Large Skillet
- 1 Stock Pot
Ingredients
- 24 ounce box mac and cheese I used one box of Velveeta Mac and Cheese
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 8 ounce can tomato sauce
- 10 ounce can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chiles
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
Instructions
- Prepare the macaroni and cheese according to package directions. Leave it in the large pot when you're done.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Cook until it's no longer pink. Drain excess grease.
- Add the taco seasoning along with the tomato sauce and Rotel. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook the taco beef mixture for 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens.
- Add the taco meat to the prepared mac and cheese. Stir to combine. Serve and enjoy!
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