Salsa Mac 'N' Beef
A hearty, cheesy pasta dish with seasoned ground beef and a zesty salsa twist, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 10-inch skillet, over medium-high heat, cook ground beef until browned, stirring to separate the meat.
- Spoon off excess fat from the skillet.
- Add beef broth to the skillet and heat to boiling.
- Stir in the dry macaroni.
- Reduce heat to medium and cook for 10 minutes or until macaroni is tender, stirring often.
- Stir in the Cheddar cheese soup and salsa.
- Heat through, stirring occasionally, and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream when stirring in the Cheddar cheese soup. You can substitute ground turkey for the beef for a lighter version. If you want more spice, try using a spicy salsa or adding diced jalapeños. This dish pairs well with a side of thick vegetable soup for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Salsa Mac 'N' Beef with a fresh green salad or tortilla chips for added crunch. You can sprinkle with extra cheese or fresh cilantro on top for garnish. This dish is also great for potlucks or casual gatherings, making it a crowd-pleaser alongside American recipes like Killer Cheese Ball.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of beef broth or water to prevent drying out and microwave or heat on the stovetop until warmed through. It's best to consume the dish fresh to enjoy its full flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Salsa Mac 'N' Beef contains roughly 321 calories, with 10g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1449mg per serving (63% 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 use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute the medium shell macaroni with any pasta shape you prefer, such as elbow macaroni or penne. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type to ensure it's cooked to your liking.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and a dairy-free cheese soup for a complete vegetarian dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, use a spicier salsa or incorporate red pepper flakes or hot sauce while cooking. For an extra kick, mix in diced green chilies or jalapeños with the beef. Adjust to your spice preference for the perfect flavor.
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).