Spice up your Taco Tuesday with these creative and delicious recipes that go beyond traditional tacos. From taco casserole to taco pie and mac n’ cheese, these dishes are sure to satisfy your craving for Mexican-inspired flavors with a twist. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, these recipes will add excitement to your Taco Tuesday tradition.
Ingredients for Taco Casserole, Pie, & Mac n’ Cheese
Note: Ingredients listed are for all three recipes combined. Adjust quantities based on individual recipe needs.
For Taco Casserole:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
- Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes
For Taco Pie:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 1 prepared pie crust
- Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced avocado, salsa
For Taco Mac n’ Cheese:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- Optional toppings: sliced green onions, chopped fresh cilantro
How to Make Taco Casserole, Pie, & Mac n’ Cheese
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for the casserole and pie.
- Cook Ground Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until browned. Drain excess fat if needed. Add taco seasoning and prepare according to packet instructions.
- Prepare Taco Casserole:
- In a large bowl, combine cooked meat, black beans, corn, salsa, and half of the shredded cheese.
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with remaining shredded cheese and crushed tortilla chips.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Prepare Taco Pie:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Press the pie crust into a pie dish. Prick the bottom with a fork.
- Spoon the taco meat mixture into the pie crust. Top with shredded cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
- Prepare Taco Mac n’ Cheese:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Cook and stir until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Add salsa and black beans.
- Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
- Serve: Serve each dish hot, topped with optional garnishes like sour cream, cilantro, lettuce, avocado, or additional salsa.
About the Main Ingredients
- Ground Meat: Provides protein and savory flavor in all three dishes.
- Taco Seasoning: Adds Mexican-inspired spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika.
- Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds richness to the casserole and mac n’ cheese.
- Salsa: Provides a tangy and flavorful base in both the casserole and mac n’ cheese.
- Tortilla Chips and Pie Crust: Add crunch and texture to the casserole and taco pie, respectively.
These Taco Tuesday recipes offer variety and creativity, making every bite a fiesta of flavors. Whether you prefer a hearty casserole, comforting pie, or creamy mac n’ cheese, these dishes are sure to become favorites for family meals and gatherings alike.
