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Taco Mac and Cheese

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 650
A flavorful twist on classic mac and cheese with taco-seasoned beef and peppers, topped with melted cheeses.

Ingredients

Meat and Seasonings

  • 1 lbs lean ground beef (96/4)
  • 1 tbsp Taco Seasoning
  • 1/4 cup water

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 8 oz Banza Chickpea Pasta Elbows (uncooked)
  • 1 red bell pepper chopped red bell pepper (113g)

Dairy and Cheese

  • 8 oz low fat cottage cheese
  • 1/2 cup medium spice salsa
  • 1/4 cup whole milk (sub 2%)
  • 1/2 cup mild cheddar cheese (56g)
  • 1/2 cup reduced fat sharp cheddar cheese (56g)
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1.5 tbsp chili powder
  • 1.5 tbsp ground cumin

Instructions 

  • Cook pasta in boiling water according to package instructions.
  • Brown ground beef in a skillet; add taco seasoning mixed with water, then simmer with chopped peppers for 5 minutes.
  • Blend cottage cheese until smooth; mix in salsa, milk, and flour to make sauce.
  • Add cheese to sauce, melt, then combine with beef mixture.
  • Drain pasta and mix into the skillet; top with chopped cilantro and serve.

Notes

For a creamier texture, blend cottage cheese thoroughly and adjust seasonings to taste.
Calories: 650kcal
Cost: $15
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: beef, Mac and Cheese, Tacos