Mac and Cheese Cowboy Cups: A Fun and Flavorful Twist on a Classic Favorite

These Mac and Cheese Cowboy Cups take the beloved boxed mac and cheese to a whole new level! Featuring seasoned taco-style ground beef, zesty pepper jack cheese, and all the creamy goodness you expect from mac and cheese, these little cups are perfect for a fun dinner or snack. Baked in muffin tins, each cup is a delightful, portable bite of comfort food that’s sure to impress your family or guests.

Ingredients:

• 2 boxes of macaroni and cheese
• 2/3 cup whole milk
• 5 tablespoons butter
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning (more to taste, optional)
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., RO-TEL®)
• 2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese
• Sour cream, tortilla chips, and chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease two standard 12-cup muffin pans and set aside.
2. Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook for about 5 minutes, or until tender. Drain and return the pasta to the pot. Add the cheese packets, milk, and butter, stirring until the mixture is creamy and smooth. Keep warm.
3. Cook the Ground Beef: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, stirring occasionally until it browns and crumbles, about 5 minutes. Add the taco seasoning and chopped onion, continuing to stir for another 2 minutes. Pour in a little water to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add the diced tomatoes with green chilies and stir to combine. Remove from heat.
4. Combine the Beef and Macaroni: Add the beef mixture to the cooked macaroni and cheese. Taste and adjust the seasoning by adding more taco seasoning if desired. Stir in the shredded pepper jack cheese until well combined.
5. Assemble the Cowboy Cups: Spoon the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared muffin cups, filling each one almost to the top. Use a small spoon to create a small indentation in the center of each cup for later garnishing.
6. Bake: Place the muffin pans in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cups are bubbling. Remove from the oven and let them sit for about 10 minutes before serving.
7. Garnish and Serve: Top the cowboy cups with sour cream, crumbled tortilla chips, and freshly chopped cilantro if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!