Mexican Mac
Mexican Mac combines flavorful seasoned beef, tender pasta, and cheesy goodness, making it a hearty, family-friendly dish full of bold flavors and comfort food appeal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown hamburger meat until done.
- Add chili powder to the meat and mix in.
- Add chopped onion and green pepper; cook until soft.
- Add tomato sauce and corn; mix together.
- Heat to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer.
- Cook macaroni until tender, then drain.
- Place cooked macaroni on plates.
- Spoon the meat mixture over the macaroni.
- Sprinkle with grated cheese and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese instead of the regular grated cheese. If you're short on time, consider using pre-cooked ground beef or turkey. You can also substitute elbow macaroni with penne or fusilli for a fun twist. To enhance the flavor, try adding a teaspoon of cumin or some black beans for extra protein.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mexican Mac with a side of fresh guacamole or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. This dish pairs beautifully with Aunt Jean'S Enchiladas for a delightful Mexican feast. For an added crunch, consider offering tortilla chips on the side or a dollop of sour cream to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to keep the macaroni from drying out, and microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently. You can also reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of cheese to refresh the dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Mac contains roughly 268 calories, with 10g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1011mg per serving (44% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by replacing the hamburger meat with cooked lentils or black beans. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of meat-based products to maintain flavor. You can also add more vegetables, such as zucchini or corn, to enhance the dish's nutrition and texture.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, you can simmer it longer to reduce excess liquid or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water. Another option is to incorporate shredded cheese directly into the sauce while it's heating, which will not only thicken it but also add creaminess and flavor.
What type of cheese works best for topping?
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for this recipe, but you can experiment with other varieties like Monterey Jack, pepper jack for spice, or even a Mexican blend for a more authentic taste. For a unique twist, try topping it with crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).