Treat your taste buds to an explosion of flavors with Nacho Mac ‘n’ Cheese, a Tex-Mex inspired dish that will leave your entire family craving for more. This mouthwatering fusion of classic macaroni and cheese with the bold and zesty Tex-Mex twist is an absolute winner. Best of all, the majority of the ingredients come together in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with loved ones, this recipe guarantees a scrumptious and satisfying meal that will impress even the pickiest eaters.
INGREDIENTS:
- 3 cups uncooked gemelli or spiral pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups chopped sweet red peppers
- ¼ cup butter, cubed
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 envelope taco seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 2¼ cups 2% milk
- 2 cups (8 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
- 1 cup coarsely crushed tortilla chips
PREPARATIONS:
- Cook the gemelli pasta according to the package directions. While the pasta is cooking, proceed with the next steps.
- In a Dutch oven, cook the ground beef and sweet red peppers over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the cubed butter, all-purpose flour, taco seasoning, and pepper until well blended.
- Gradually pour in the milk while stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 2 minutes or until it thickens.
- Remove the Dutch oven from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and thawed corn until the cheese melts.
YIELD: 6 servings
PREP/TOTAL TIME: 25 minutes
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- To save time, you can thaw the corn in advance by placing it in the refrigerator overnight or microwaving it briefly.
- Keep an eye on the pasta while cooking to ensure it reaches the desired level of tenderness.
TIPS:
- Experiment with different types of pasta, such as penne or elbow macaroni, to create your unique variation of Nacho Mac ‘n’ Cheese.
- For an extra kick, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture.
- Garnish the dish with chopped fresh cilantro or green onions for added freshness and color.
Nacho Mac ‘n’ Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that combines the familiar delight of macaroni and cheese with the bold and exciting flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine. The tantalizing fusion of tender gemelli pasta coated in a creamy cheese sauce, enriched with savory ground beef, sweet red peppers, and zesty taco seasoning, is a true delight for the palate. The addition of crunchy crushed tortilla chips on top adds a delightful textural contrast, elevating the dish to a whole new level.
This Tex-Mex inspired dish not only excites the taste buds but also offers a convenient and time-saving cooking process. By preparing most of the ingredients in a single pot, you can enjoy a delectable and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or hosting a casual get-together with friends, Nacho Mac ‘n’ Cheese is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your preferences and add your own creative touches. For those who relish spiciness, incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper can provide a delightful kick. Alternatively, explore different pasta varieties to add a unique twist to the dish.
As you savor each mouthful of Nacho Mac ‘n’ Cheese, the harmonious marriage of flavors will transport you to the lively streets of Tex-Mex cuisine, where every bite is a celebration of boldness and satisfaction. The cheesy goodness combined with the savory beef and sweet red peppers will leave a lasting impression, making this dish a household favorite for years to come.
In conclusion, Nacho Mac ‘n’ Cheese effortlessly blends two beloved culinary worlds into a delightful and comforting masterpiece. Its simplicity, versatility, and crowd-pleasing nature make it a go-to dish for various occasions. So, gather your ingredients, let your creativity flow, and relish in the irresistible charms of Nacho Mac ‘n’ Cheese!
