Mexican Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Overview:
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Tex Mex cuisine with this tantalizing Mexican Macaroni and Cheese recipe! Bursting with vibrant colors and bold flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for lunch, snacks, or even potluck gatherings, it’s a delicious fusion of creamy cheese, hearty ground turkey, and a medley of vegetables, all seasoned with aromatic spices. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
- Preparation Time: 25 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
- Cuisine: Tex Mex, Mexican
- Difficulty: Easy
- Meal Type: One Dish Meal
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 green pepper, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 can whole kernel corn, drained
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp pepper
- 2 cups macaroni and cheese dinner (prepared according to package instructions)
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 461.4
- Fat: 12.5g
- Saturated Fat: 3.7g
- Cholesterol: 96.9mg
- Sodium: 1097.7mg
- Carbohydrates: 58.2g
- Fiber: 4.8g
- Sugar: 11.1g
- Protein: 31.6g
Instructions:
-
Prepare Macaroni and Cheese Dinner:
Begin by preparing the macaroni and cheese dinner according to the package instructions. Set aside. -
Brown Ground Turkey and Vegetables:
In a large skillet, brown the ground turkey over medium heat until cooked through. Add the diced green pepper, chopped onion, and cook until tender. -
Incorporate Seasonings and Veggies:
Stir in the drained whole kernel corn, tomato sauce, chili powder, and pepper. Allow the flavors to meld together as you gently mix the ingredients. -
Combine with Macaroni and Cheese:
Once the vegetables and turkey are well-cooked and infused with the spicy tomato sauce, add the prepared macaroni and cheese dinner to the skillet. Mix everything together until well-combined. -
Bake or Heat Through:
You have two options for finishing the dish:- Stovetop: Heat the mixture through on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until warmed.
- Oven: Alternatively, transfer the mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
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Serve and Enjoy:
Once heated through, serve your delicious Mexican Macaroni and Cheese hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream if desired. Pair it with a crisp salad or some crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips:
- Customize your Mexican Macaroni and Cheese by adding extra toppings like sliced jalapeños, diced avocado, or a drizzle of hot sauce for an added kick.
- Make it vegetarian by substituting the ground turkey with plant-based ground meat or adding more veggies like black beans or diced bell peppers.
- For a gooey, cheesy finish, sprinkle some shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese on top before baking in the oven.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- Experiment with different types of pasta shapes for a fun twist on this classic dish. Try using elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini for added texture and visual appeal.
Conclusion:
With its irresistible blend of flavors and simple preparation, this Mexican Macaroni and Cheese recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for comfort food with a spicy twist. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a fiesta of flavors in every bite! 🧀🌶️🍅