{"id":157575,"date":"2018-01-01T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2017-09-16T00:58:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/origin-www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/taco-mac\/"},"modified":"2024-11-09T12:14:39","modified_gmt":"2024-11-09T18:14:39","slug":"taco-mac","status":"publish","type":"recipe","link":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/taco-mac\/","title":{"rendered":"Taco Mac and Cheese"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>This family-friendly taco mac and cheese brings together two beloved recipes, meaning it&#8217;s sure to become a weeknight staple. With only six simple ingredients, this satisfying dinner is easy, delicious and ready to serve in 30 minutes, using only one pan in the process.<\/p>\n<h2>Ingredients for Taco Mac and Cheese<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-2011738\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Taco-Mac-And-Cheese_TOHD24_12409_SheriSilver_2.jpg?fit=700%2C1024\" alt=\"Taste Of Home Taco Mac And Cheese Ingredients Arranged On A Marble Backdrop.\" width=\"700\" height=\"1024\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\">Sheri Silver for Taste Recipes<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Packaged shells and cheese:<\/strong> Boxed mac and cheese is the secret ingredient to getting this dish on the table in 30 minutes.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Bulk pork sausage:<\/strong> Sausage adds lots of flavor and is a good source of protein. You can use sweet or spicy sausage, depending on your family\u2019s preferences.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Taco sauce:<\/strong> Use your preferred brand of jarred or bottled taco sauce. If you\u2019re feeling fancy, make your own.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Taco seasoning:<\/strong> The combinations of spices in packaged taco seasoning add a distinctive flavor to this dish. You can dial the heat up or down depending on your palate.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Shredded lettuce:<\/strong> We love to use iceberg lettuce. Its cool, crisp texture is a refreshing complement to all that warm and cheesy mac.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Tomatoes:<\/strong> Fresh chopped tomatoes are a classic taco topping. You can use in-season heirlooms, grape tomatoes or the sturdier plum variety.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Shredded cheddar cheese:<\/strong> Feel free to double down on the cheese in this recipe, because you can never have too much! Monterey Jack, Swiss and other blends all work as beautifully as cheddar.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Directions<\/h2>\n<h3>Step 1: Prepare the shells and cheese<\/h3>\n<p>Prepare the shells and cheese according to the package directions.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 2: Stir in the sausage, taco sauce and taco seasoning<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-2011739\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Taco-Mac-And-Cheese_TOHD24_12409_SheriSilver_3.jpg?fit=700%2C1024\" alt=\"Taco Mac and Cheese in a Dutch oven\" width=\"700\" height=\"1024\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\">Sheri Silver for Taste Recipes<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>To the prepared shells and cheese add the cooked and drained sausage, taco sauce and taco seasoning. Cook and stir until the ingredients are well combined and heated through.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 3: Add your toppings<\/h3>\n<p>Top with the shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes and shredded cheddar, if desired.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-2011741\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Taco-Mac-And-Cheese_TOHD24_12409_SheriSilver_7.jpg?fit=700%2C1024\" alt=\"Taco Mac and Cheese in white bowls next to a wooden board\" width=\"700\" height=\"1024\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\">Sheri Silver for Taste Recipes<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Taco Mac and Cheese Variations<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Change the meats:<\/strong> Use ground beef instead of bulk pork sausage. Ground beef is a great alternative to sausage in this recipe. Simply use the same amount of beef as sausage and cook and drain it before adding it.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Go gluten-free:<\/strong> With so many gluten-free packaged shells and cheese available you can easily turn this recipe into an ideal gluten-free meal.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>How to Store Taco Mac and Cheese<\/h2>\n<p>Taco mac and cheese can be stored, without its toppings, in the fridge or freezer. Cool completely the dish, wrap it well in an airtight container and store it in the fridge or freezer.<\/p>\n<h3>How do you reheat taco mac and cheese?<\/h3>\n<p>If stored in the fridge, warm it in a saucepan on the stove, stirring frequently. You can add a little milk or water if needed to restore consistency. If stored in the freezer, thaw it in the fridge overnight or earlier in the day. Warm it up in a saucepan on the stove, stirring frequently, and adding a little milk or water if needed to restore consistency.<\/p>\n<h3>Can you make taco mac and cheese ahead of time?<\/h3>\n<p>Yes. Taco mac and cheese can be prepared earlier in the day and reheated prior to serving. Prepare the recipe as instructed, adding the toppings and shredded cheese (if using) just before serving.<\/p>\n<h3>How long will taco mac and cheese last?<\/h3>\n<p>Wrapped well in an airtight container, taco mac and cheese will last for three to four days in the fridge and up to two weeks in the freezer.<\/p>\n<h2>Taco Mac and Cheese Tips<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-2007398\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Taco-Mac-And-Cheese_TOHD24_12409_SheriSilver_6.jpg?fit=700%2C1024\" alt=\"Taco Mac and Cheese in a white bowl\" width=\"700\" height=\"1024\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\">Sheri Silver for Taste Recipes<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<h3>What can I serve with taco mac and cheese?<\/h3>\n<p>Serve this family-friendly meal with a green salad, steamed or roasted vegetables or warm cornbread.<\/p>\n<h3>Can this recipe be doubled?<\/h3>\n<p>Taco mac and cheese scales up beautifully. Simply double the ingredients and cook in a large saucepan to accommodate.<\/p>\n<h3>What additional toppings or mix-ins can I use?<\/h3>\n<p>Feel free to add your choice of taco toppings and mix-ins to this recipe. Fresh or frozen corn, broccoli florets and peas all work. You can add them right into the pan along with the sausage. For toppings, we love sliced avocado, seeded and chopped jalapenos and fresh sour cream.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>This zesty taco mac and cheese is just as yummy the next day. Simply warm it up and garnish with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes and cheese. \u2014JoLynn Fribley, Nokomis, Illinois<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8054,"featured_media":2014126,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"ep_exclude_from_search":false},"tags":[304032,304328,305271,304292,305487,304343,303966,303887,306848,304347,304268,307307,305383,305374,307514,306297,307383,307404,304350,324623,303883],"categories-v2":[308623,308988,308984,308481,309216,308305,310796,308993,308495,308478,309603,308998,259483,310342,309391,309381,310497,312156,310410,310435,309001,309177,308476],"coauthors":[343514],"recommended_recipes":[{"post_title":"Baked Mac and Cheese","post_link":"\/recipes\/baked-mac-and-cheese\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/Baked-Mac-and-Cheese_EXPS_FT24_25257_ST_0206_9.jpg"},{"post_title":"Mexican Mac and 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Cheese","post_link":"\/recipes\/chili-mac-cheese\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Artichoke-Chicken_EXPS_TOHD_24_150984_LauraScherb_14.jpg"},{"post_title":"Cheeseburger Tacos","post_link":"\/recipes\/cheeseburger-tacos\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Cheeseburger-Tacos_EXPS_TOHD24_271839_EricKleinberg_6.jpg"},{"post_title":"Cajun Mac and Cheese","post_link":"\/recipes\/cajun-mac-and-cheese\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Cajun-Mac-and-Cheese_EXPS_TOHD24_277628_EricKleinberg_8.jpg"},{"post_title":"French Onion Mac and Cheese","post_link":"\/recipes\/french-onion-mac-and-cheese\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/recipeFallback.jpg"},{"post_title":"Cheesy Mac & Cheese","post_link":"\/recipes\/cheesy-mac-cheese\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/Cheesy-Mac-Cheese_exps118505_BAFTB2307047A03_03_8bC_RMS.jpg"},{"post_title":"Cheeseburger Macaroni","post_link":"\/recipes\/cheeseburger-macaroni\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/recipeFallback.jpg"},{"post_title":"Taco Macaroni","post_link":"\/recipes\/taco-macaroni\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/exps38179_SD1193247D11B.jpg"},{"post_title":"Jalapeno-Bacon Mac & Cheese","post_link":"\/recipes\/jalapeno-bacon-mac-cheese\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/exps185578_TH143195B07_30_3b.jpg"},{"post_title":"Meaty Mac 'n' Cheese","post_link":"\/recipes\/meaty-mac-n-cheese\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/exps10402_QC10044C31A.jpg"}],"acf":{"long_pin":"https:\/\/tmbidigitalassetsazure.blob.core.windows.net\/rms3-prod\/attachments\/37\/1200x1200\/EXPS_TOHD24_12409_SheriSilver_6.jpg","long_pin_file":false,"ncv_override_generic_settings_option":false,"ncv_autoplay_option":"","ncv_stickyplay_option":"","ncv_ads_option":"","ncv_mute_option":"","ncv_comscore_option":"","ncv_autoplay_mobile_option":"","ncv_viewable_threshold_option":"","ncv_sticky_offset_option":"","ncv_autopause_option":"","ncv_sticky_offset_mobile_option":"","ncv_autopause_mobile_option":"","ncv_sticky_mobile_option":"","ncv_remove_player_option":false,"ncv_moat_option":""},"recipe_schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@type":"Recipe","@id":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/taco-mac\/","name":"Taco Mac and Cheese","datePublished":"2018-01-01","dateModified":"2024-11-09","prepTime":"PT30M","cookTime":"PT0M","totalTime":"PT30M","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/EXPS_TOHD24_12409_SheriSilver_6.jpg","height":1200,"width":1200},"recipeCategory":["Dinner"],"description":"This taco mac and cheese recipe is a mash-up made in food heaven. With six ingredients, dinner will be whipped up in only 30 minutes.","recipeIngredient":["1 package (24 ounces) shells and cheese dinner mix","1\/2 pound bulk pork sausage, cooked and drained","1\/3 cup taco sauce","1 tablespoon taco seasoning","4 cups shredded lettuce","2 medium tomatoes, chopped","Shredded cheddar cheese, optional"],"recipeInstructions":[{"@type":"HowToStep","name":"Prepare the shells and cheese","text":"Prepare the shells and cheese according to the package directions."},{"@type":"HowToStep","name":"Stir in the sausage, taco sauce and taco seasoning","text":"To the prepared shells and cheese add the cooked and drained sausage, taco sauce and taco seasoning. Cook and stir until the ingredients are well combined and heated through.","image":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Taco-Mac-And-Cheese_TOHD24_12409_SheriSilver_3.jpg?resize=700,1024"},{"@type":"HowToStep","name":"Add your toppings","text":"Top with the shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes and shredded cheddar, if desired.","image":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Taco-Mac-And-Cheese_TOHD24_12409_SheriSilver_7.jpg?resize=700,1024"}],"recipeYield":"6 servings","author":[{"@type":"Person","name":"Sheri Silver"}],"nutrition":{"@type":"NutritionInformation","calories":" 465 calories","fatContent":"20g fat (11g saturated fat)","cholesterolContent":"54mg cholesterol","sodiumContent":"1413mg sodium","carbohydrateContent":"51g carbohydrate (7g sugars","fiberContent":"2g fiber)","proteinContent":"20g protein. "},"aggregateRating":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"AggregateRating","ratingValue":4.8333335,"reviewCount":12,"worstRating":1,"bestRating":5},"recipeCuisine":"North America, Mexican","review":[{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Review","datePublished":"2012-11-07","author":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Person","name":"mjlouk"},"reviewBody":"This was so easy and so good!  Great for a weeknight meal!","reviewRating":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Rating","ratingValue":5,"worstRating":1,"bestRating":5}},{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Review","datePublished":"2016-06-05","author":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Person","name":"Angel182009"},"reviewBody":"A big hit with the family. So simple and fast to prepare and get dinner on the table. I used salsa in place of the taco sauce. Simply delicious!","reviewRating":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Rating","ratingValue":5,"worstRating":1,"bestRating":5}},{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Review","datePublished":"2010-03-03","author":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Person","name":"lisa hanson","givenName":"lisa","familyName":"hanson"},"reviewBody":"My husband- who typically doesn't like this type of \"helper like\" -dinner went back for seconds.  I made it with ground turkey, and yes, I did add a little more taco seasoning to the mix.  I added the sauce and seasonings to the meat in the pan after browning the meat.   It was super fast and yummy!  I'm adding it to my make again \"dinners\" list.","reviewRating":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Rating","ratingValue":4,"worstRating":1,"bestRating":5}},{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Review","datePublished":"2013-11-02","author":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Person","name":"luigimon"},"reviewBody":"This is going to be one of those recipes that I'll always keep the staple ingredients on hand....makes for a great weekend lunch for my husband and I.","reviewRating":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Rating","ratingValue":5,"worstRating":1,"bestRating":5}},{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Review","datePublished":"2015-10-09","author":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Person","name":"tammycookblogsbooks"},"reviewBody":"This dish is quick to put together. It is also a tasty meal that my family enjoyed. I decided to bake this (minus the veggies) at 375 degrees for about 25 minutes, the recipe does not call for this. I also changed it up by using my own quick mac & cheese recipe (about 32 oz) and hot flavored ground pork sausage. I doubled the sausage, taco sauce, and seasoning. This seems to be a very kid-friendly meal.","reviewRating":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Rating","ratingValue":5,"worstRating":1,"bestRating":5}},{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Review","datePublished":"2012-04-16","author":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Person","name":"Ashaline"},"reviewBody":"This is one of the recipes that I use when I need a fast easy yummy dinner.  We really like it!","reviewRating":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Rating","ratingValue":5,"worstRating":1,"bestRating":5}},{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Review","datePublished":"2012-09-04","author":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Person","name":"Trynette Gross","givenName":"Trynette","familyName":"Gross"},"reviewBody":"I've made this recipe a few times now and would also recommend it as a quick, easy, and good supper recipe.  The busier our lives get, the better it is to have quick suppers available.  I usually make a double batch to have leftovers the next night.  Thanks for sharing!","reviewRating":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Rating","ratingValue":5,"worstRating":1,"bestRating":5}},{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Review","datePublished":"2011-02-05","author":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Person","name":"mankekm"},"reviewBody":"It's been over 10 years since I've found and starting using this recipe...it's still a family favorite!","reviewRating":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Rating","ratingValue":5,"worstRating":1,"bestRating":5}},{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Review","datePublished":"2013-10-23","author":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Person","name":"LelaZ"},"reviewBody":"Super easy n delicious.","reviewRating":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Rating","ratingValue":4,"worstRating":1,"bestRating":5}},{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Review","datePublished":"2010-12-30","author":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Person","name":"cklayum"},"reviewBody":"Kids loved it; serve over Fritos next time.","reviewRating":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Rating","ratingValue":5,"worstRating":1,"bestRating":5}},{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Review","datePublished":"2010-01-27","author":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Person","name":"Liz21078"},"reviewBody":"Very yummy!  Ive made it w\/o the meat also for an even quicker dinner","reviewRating":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Rating","ratingValue":5,"worstRating":1,"bestRating":5}},{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Review","datePublished":"2010-01-21","author":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Person","name":"bj6503"},"reviewBody":"This was very good! Very quick and easy to make. I added a little more taco seasoning for more spice. Wow such an easy dish for a quick meal or for the ones who come home later, after dinner! Thanks, Ioved it!!","reviewRating":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Rating","ratingValue":5,"worstRating":1,"bestRating":5}}]},"video":{"data":{"status":204},"message":"No shortcode found in recipe"},"rms_legacy_id":"12409","romance_copy_dek":"This taco mac and cheese recipe is a mash-up made in food heaven. 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