Taco Macaroni and Cheese Skillet

Ingredients

• 1 (8 ounce) package macaroni noodles, cooked

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh minced garlic
• 1 small green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
• salt and pepper

• 1 (1 1/4 ounce) package taco seasoning mix (can use 2 packages if desired)
• 3/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups half-and-half cream (or use full-fat milk)
• 2 1/2 cups old cheddar cheese, shredded and divided

TOPPINGS

• chopped tomato
• green onion
• sour cream
• salsa

Directions

1. 1

   In a large skillet brown the ground beef with onions, garlic and green bell pepper until no longer pink, season with salt and pepper; drain and add in the Parmesan cheese.

2. 2

   Stir in the taco seasoning mix and 3/4 cup water; bring to a boil and cook stirring occasionally (about 7-8 minutes or until most of the liquid has evaporated) remove from heat.

3. 3

   In a large saucepan melt butter over medium-low heat; whisk in flour until smooth, cook whisking constantly for 2 minutes.

4. 4

   Gradually whisk in milk; cook whisking constantly for about 4 minutes or until thickened; remove from heat.

5. 5

   Stir in 1-1/2 cups cheddar cheese, stirring until melted.

6. 6

   Stir in the cooked pasta and beef mixture; mix to combine and cook just until heated through (about 3 minutes).

7. 7

   Sprinkle with remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese and serve.

8. 8

   Serve immediately with desired toppings.

9. 9

   Delicious!