Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large skillet
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large pot for cooking macaroni
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
4. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
5. Add taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for 5 minutes.
6. Add cooked macaroni to the skillet and stir to combine.
7. Pour the mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
8. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 450
Fat: 23g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 29g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef.
- Any type of canned beans can be used in place of black beans.
- Frozen corn can be used instead of canned corn.
Variations:
- Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor and spice.
- Top with sliced avocado or sour cream before serving.
- Use different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or Monterey jack.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to drain any excess fat from the ground beef after cooking.
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking.
- Add a splash of water or broth to the skillet if the mixture seems too dry.
Storage Instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve in individual bowls or on plates with a side salad.
Garnishes:
Chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, or sour cream.
Pairings:
Serve with a side of tortilla chips or a fresh salsa.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.
Troubleshooting Advice:
If the casserole seems too dry, add a splash of water or broth to the skillet before baking.
Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to cook ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food History:
Taco Mac Casserole is a popular dish in the United States that combines the flavors of tacos and macaroni and cheese.
Flavor Profiles:
Savory, cheesy, and slightly spicy.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve hot and garnish with chopped cilantro.
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