Why You’ll Love this Cheesy Mexican Beef Macaroni
When comfort food meets Mexican flavors, magic happens in the most delicious way possible. I’m talking about a casserole that brings together everything you crave: tender pasta, savory ground beef, and that perfect cheese pull.
It’s weeknight-friendly, budget-conscious, and honestly, what’s not to love about crushed corn chips adding that satisfying crunch on top?
What Ingredients are in Cheesy Mexican Beef Macaroni?
Let me break down exactly what goes into this crowd-pleasing casserole that’s about to become your new weeknight hero. This isn’t one of those recipes with a mile-long ingredient list that sends you running to three different stores – nope, most of these items are probably hanging out in your pantry right now, just waiting for their moment to shine.
- 1 cup elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup onion, chopped
- 1 (19 ounce) can chili without beans
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup corn chips, coarsely crushed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 cup buttered bread crumbs
Now, about those cottage cheese curds – I know, I know, it might seem like an odd choice when you’re thinking “Mexican” and “cheesy,” but trust the process here. Cottage cheese melts into this creamy, protein-packed base that’s way more budget-friendly than loading up on expensive cheese blends. And those corn chips? They’re not just for snacking anymore – they add this incredible texture contrast that makes every bite interesting. If you can’t find buttered bread crumbs at the store, just toss regular breadcrumbs with a little melted butter, because that golden, crispy top layer is absolutely non-negotiable.
How to Make this Cheesy Mexican Beef Macaroni
Let’s get this cheesy goodness rolling because honestly, this recipe is so straightforward that even your most kitchen-challenged friend could nail it on the first try. Start by cooking your 1 cup of elbow macaroni according to the package directions – and please, for the love of all that’s holy, don’t forget to salt that pasta water.
While those little elbow guys are doing their thing, grab a skillet and lightly brown your 1/2 pound of ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks because nobody wants giant beef chunks hogging all the spotlight. Once the meat’s looking good and browned, toss in your 1/4 cup of chopped onion and let it cook until it’s tender and fragrant, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
Now comes the fun part where everything starts coming together like a beautiful, cheesy symphony. Stir in your 19-ounce can of chili without beans, that 1 cup of cottage cheese (yes, it’s going to look a little weird at first, but stick with me), your 1/2 cup of coarsely crushed corn chips, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, and your perfectly cooked macaroni. Mix it all up until everything’s well combined – the cottage cheese will start melting and creating this creamy base that’s going to make your taste buds do a little happy dance.
Spoon this glorious mixture into a buttered 12 x 7 1/2 x 2-inch baking dish, sprinkle that 1 cup of buttered bread crumbs on top like you’re adding fairy dust, and slide it into a 350-degree oven for 30 minutes. The top should be golden brown and bubbly when it’s done, and your kitchen will smell like comfort food heaven. If you’re planning to make this recipe regularly, consider investing in a premium slow cooker for hands-off cooking that delivers the same delicious, home-cooked comfort food results.
Cheesy Mexican Beef Macaroni Substitutions and Variations
Sometimes the best part about comfort food recipes is how easily they bend to whatever’s hanging out in your pantry, and this cheesy Mexican beef macaroni is basically the poster child for kitchen flexibility.
I swap ground turkey for beef, toss in frozen corn, or use whatever cheese I’ve got lurking in my fridge drawer.
What to Serve with Cheesy Mexican Beef Macaroni
Why overthink dinner when this cheesy Mexican beef macaroni basically carries the whole meal on its sturdy, comfort-food shoulders? I’d pair it with a simple green salad, maybe some crunchy romaine with lime vinaigrette.
Want something warm? Try roasted corn or steamed broccoli. The dish is already packed with flavor, so keep sides light and fresh.
Final Thoughts
When comfort food meets Mexican flavors, you get this beautifully messy, wonderfully satisfying dish that’ll have your family asking for seconds before they’ve finished their firsts. I’m convinced this recipe proves that sometimes the best meals come from throwing everything into one pan and letting magic happen in your oven.
