Taco night just got a serious upgrade with this delightful recipe for Taco Shells & Cheese. Imagine the creamy comfort of macaroni and cheese blended seamlessly with the bold flavors of taco seasoning and delicious ground beef. This dish easily combines two beloved classics into one satisfying meal that the entire family will love. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a fun dish to serve on game day, Taco Shells & Cheese is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This Taco Shells & Cheese recipe is not just about taste; it’s about convenience and creativity. Here are a few reasons why you’ll find yourself returning to this dish time and time again:

One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices creates a rich, inviting flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds.
Easy Substitutions: With a few tweaks, you can customize ingredients to suit your dietary preferences.
Kid-Friendly: This dish is fun and familiar, making it a hit with the little ones.
Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy cheese, hearty pasta, and savory beef create a warm, satisfying dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.

What’s in the Bowl

To whip up this delicious Taco Shells & Cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients:

8 oz/226g mini shell or elbow pasta, cooked according to package instructions
8 oz/226g ground beef
1 tablespoon chili powder*
2 teaspoons ground chipotle chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon ground coriander
¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
1 cup/420g whole milk
2 tablespoons/15g all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons/11g sodium citrate**
8 oz/226g shredded white cheese (about 2 cups), a mix of white cheddar and Gruyère works beautifully
½ head iceberg lettuce, shredded
1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered

Tools of the Trade

Before you dive into cooking, gather these essential tools:

Large Pot: For cooking pasta and making the cheese sauce.
Skillet: To brown the ground beef and toast the spices.
Whisk: Essential for mixing the cheese sauce smoothly.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Spatula: For stirring and combining all the ingredients.

Directions: Taco Shells & Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by cooking the mini shell or elbow pasta in a large pot according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Once the beef is browned, stir in the chili powder, ground chipotle chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, kosher salt, ground coriander, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan, whisk together the whole milk and all-purpose flour over medium heat. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens slightly. Add sodium citrate, and stir until dissolved.

Step 5: Incorporate the Cheese

Gradually add the shredded white cheese to the milk mixture, stirring continuously until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more milk to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Combine Everything

In the skillet with the seasoned beef, add the cooked pasta and cheese sauce. Mix everything together until well combined and heated through.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Spoon the Taco Shells & Cheese into bowls and top with shredded iceberg lettuce and quartered cherry tomatoes for a fresh crunch.

Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives

If you’re looking for a low-carb or keto-friendly version of Taco Shells & Cheese, consider these substitutions:

Replace the pasta with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice.
Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter protein option.
Opt for a low-carb cheese blend or dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding carbs.
Incorporate more vegetables, like bell peppers or spinach, for added nutrition.

Author’s Commentary

This Taco Shells & Cheese recipe is a labor of love that combines my favorite comfort foods into one incredible dish. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying and flavorful. The blend of spices adds just the right amount of kick, while the creamy cheese sauce wraps everything in a comforting hug. Plus, you can easily adjust the spices to suit your taste. I love serving this with a fresh side salad for a complete meal!

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers (though it’s hard to resist finishing this dish in one sitting), here’s how to store and reheat Taco Shells & Cheese:

Storing: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Reader Q&A

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well for that creamy texture.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! The flavors are mild enough for kids, and the fun pasta shapes make it appealing. You can adjust the spices based on your children’s preferences.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the beef and cheese sauce in advance, then combine with the pasta just before serving. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze!

What can I serve with Taco Shells & Cheese?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, some tortilla chips, or even guacamole for a complete taco night experience!

In Closing

Taco Shells & Cheese is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and comfort. This recipe turns classic comfort food into a fun, flavorful dish that will delight your family and friends. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, this dish is sure to shine on your table. The blend of creamy cheese, seasoned beef, and playful pasta shapes creates a dish that is both satisfying and comforting. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a new family favorite!

This Taco Shells & Cheese recipe is versatile, delicious, and easy to make. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking! You’ll be savoring every bite of this delightful fusion of tacos and mac and cheese!