Beefy Salsa Macaroni and Velveeta Cheese
Dive into a comforting bowl of Beefy Salsa Macaroni and Velveeta Cheese, a one-pot sensation that combines rich, savory flavors with ultimate cheesy goodness. This quick and easy dinner features tender elbow macaroni simmered with perfectly seasoned ground beef, zesty salsa, and a luscious blend of melted Velveeta cheese, creating a creamy, Tex-Mex-inspired dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes. The addition of sautéed onions, garlic, and a sprinkle of paprika elevates the flavor profile, while optional toppings like shredded cheddar and fresh cilantro add a customizable finishing touch. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this hearty, kid-approved meal is sure to become a family favorite.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1.5 cups salsa (mild, medium, or hot based on preference)
- 12 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 3 cups water
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
In a large pot or deep skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Add the ground beef. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Reduce the heat to medium and add the salsa to the meat mixture. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
Pour in 3 cups of water and bring the mixture to a boil.
Add the elbow macaroni to the pot, stir well, and cover with a lid. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Once the macaroni is cooked, add the cubed Velveeta cheese to the pot. Stir constantly until the cheese is fully melted and coats the macaroni and beef evenly.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper to preference.
Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
Serve warm, optionally garnishing with shredded cheddar cheese and fresh cilantro.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
556 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 32.2 g | 41% | |
| Saturated Fat | 15.3 g | 77% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 87 mg | 29% | |
| Sodium | 1563 mg | 68% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 40.6 g | 15% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.4 g | 12% | |
| Total Sugars | 8.0 g | ||
| Protein | 29.9 g | 60% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 383 mg | 29% | |
| Iron | 3.4 mg | 19% | |
| Potassium | 596 mg | 13% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
