Go Back
Homemade Taco Shells & Cheese recipe photo

Taco Shells & Cheese

This Taco Shells & Cheese is a delightful fusion of creamy macaroni and cheese with bold taco flavors!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 8 oz mini shell or elbow pasta cooked according to package instructions
  • 8 oz 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 whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons sodium citrate **
  • 8 oz 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

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula

Method
 

Directions
  1. Begin by cooking the mini shell or elbow pasta in a large pot according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. In the skillet with the seasoned beef, add the cooked pasta and cheese sauce. Mix everything together until well combined and heated through.
  7. Spoon the Taco Shells & Cheese into bowls and top with shredded iceberg lettuce and quartered cherry tomatoes for a fresh crunch.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; use a freezer-safe container.
  • To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk.