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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes resonate quite like macaroni and cheese. Now imagine combining that beloved classic with the vibrant flavors of tacos, and you have the delightful Mini Taco Macaroni Muffins. This recipe offers a fun and tasty twist on traditional comfort food, making it an ideal choice for family dinners, parties, or even meal prep. With their bite-sized portions, these mini muffins not only deliver on flavor but also provide the convenience of easy serving, allowing for stress-free entertaining or quick meals on the go.

Mini Taco Macaroni Muffins

Discover a fun and flavorful twist on classic comfort food with Mini Taco Macaroni Muffins! This easy recipe combines the rich, cheesy goodness of macaroni and cheese with vibrant taco flavors, making it perfect for family dinners, parties, or meal prep. Packed with savory beef, cheese, and spices, these bite-sized muffins are not only delicious but also convenient for on-the-go snacking. Get creative by adding veggies and garnishes for a nutritious, satisfying treat everyone will love!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup elbow macaroni

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 pound ground beef (or turkey)

1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 ounce)

1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a cheese blend)

1/2 cup frozen corn (optional, for added sweetness and texture)

1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained (optional, for extra protein)

2 large eggs

1/2 cup milk

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking spray or muffin liners

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard muffin tin with cooking spray or line with muffin liners for easy removal after baking.

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside to cool slightly.

      Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. When hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and continue to cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until fragrant.

        Brown the Meat: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary, then remove from heat.

          Add Flavor: While the meat is still in the skillet, sprinkle the taco seasoning over the mixture. Stir in the diced tomatoes, frozen corn, and black beans (if using). Let this simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is well-combined and heated through.

            Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and the meat mixture. Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheese and mix thoroughly to ensure that every macaroni piece is coated.

              Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. If using, fold in the chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.

                Mix Everything Together: Pour the egg mixture over the macaroni and meat combination. Mix well so that everything is evenly coated, ensuring the muffins will have a good structure.

                  Fill Muffin Tin: Spoon the macaroni and meat mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup to the top. Generously sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese over the top of each muffin for a delicious cheesy crust.

                    Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and set.

                      Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes. Carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool further. Serve warm, garnished with additional cilantro or a dollop of salsa for extra flavor, if desired.

                        Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 40 mins | 12 servings