Mac and cheese is already the ultimate comfort food, but what if we took it up a notch? Enter Mexican Mac and Cheese—a zesty, bold, and utterly irresistible twist on the classic. This dish brings together all the cozy, creamy goodness of mac and cheese with the rich flavors of seasoned beef, tomatoes, and spices. The result? A dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and packed with flavor in every bite.
It’s like taco night met pasta night, and trust me, you’re going to love it. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself (no judgment here!), this dish is quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love Mexican Mac and Cheese
Is this Mexican Mac and Cheese for you? Let’s see. Mexican Mac and Cheese is…
- Rich and cheesy – Every bite is packed with gooey, melty cheese.
- Boldly flavored – A blend of chili powder, oregano, and tomatoes gives it that perfect Mexican kick.
- One-pot magic – Less cleanup, more time to enjoy.
- Hearty and satisfying – Thanks to the ground beef and pasta, this dish is a meal on its own.
- Family-friendly – It’s a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults.
Ingredients in Mexican Mac and Cheese
Here’s the magic of this dish—it’s made with simple ingredients that come together for an incredible meal:
Ground Beef: The foundation of the dish. Using extra-lean beef keeps it lighter without sacrificing flavor.
Onion: Adds a deep, savory aroma and a hint of sweetness to balance the spices.
Chili Powder & Oregano: These classic Mexican seasonings bring warmth and depth.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors and ties everything together.
Diced Tomatoes: The acidity and freshness cut through the richness, giving the dish balance.
Tomato Sauce: Adds a smooth, velvety texture and a rich tomato flavor.
Corn: A little sweetness and crunch to contrast the creamy pasta.
Water: Helps cook the pasta right in the same pot, infusing it with all the flavors.
Elbow Macaroni: The perfect pasta shape to soak up all the sauce and cheesy goodness.
Cheddar Cheese: The finishing touch—melty, gooey, and totally irresistible.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Cook the Beef & Onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess grease.
Season It Up: Stir in the chili powder, oregano, and salt. Let the seasonings coat the beef for a minute to release their full flavor.
Add the Tomatoes & Sauce: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and tomato sauce. Stir everything together, letting the flavors meld.
Mix in the Corn & Water: Add the corn and water, stirring to combine.
Cook the Pasta: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, making sure it’s fully submerged in the liquid. Cover and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
Melt the Cheese: Remove from heat and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Let it melt for a couple of minutes before stirring it in for that perfect, creamy finish.
Serve and Enjoy: Dish up a big, cozy bowl and dig in!
How to Serve Mexican Mac and Cheese
- Fresh Salads: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the dish’s rich flavors.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauce.
- Creamy Accompaniments: Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Vegetable Sides: Roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus make a great side.
- As a Standalone: This dish is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Garnish with fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of extra cheese for a finishing touch.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Additional Tips
Prep Ahead: Save time by chopping your onion and measuring out spices beforehand.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes if you love extra heat.
Dietary Adjustments: Swap the beef for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative to fit your needs.
Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Double the Batch: This recipe freezes well! Make an extra portion and freeze for a quick meal later.
Secret Tip: For an extra indulgent touch, stir in a little cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream at the end for ultimate creaminess.
This Mexican Mac and Cheese is a total game-changer. Cozy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. So, grab your skillet and get cooking—dinner is about to get a whole lot tastier!
Mexican Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
- 1 pound extra-lean ground beef 95% lean
- 1 large onion chopped
- 1-1/4 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 can 14-1/2 ounces diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn
- ½ cup water
- ⅔ cup uncooked elbow macaroni
- ½ cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
Instructions
- In a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and onion until the beef is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess grease if necessary.
- Stir in chili powder, oregano, salt, diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, corn, and water. Bring to a boil.
- Stir in uncooked macaroni, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is tender.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover and let sit for a minute or two until the cheese melts.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
