Spicy Taco Mac & Cheese
with Black Beans
Add some Mexican flair to your favorite childhood dish with all of the best taco toppings. Refreshing cilantro crema, hearty lime black beans, and fresh, juicy tomatoes put a lively spin on mac n' cheese.
Nutrition (per serving)
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INGREDIENTS
- 6 oz cavatappi pasta
- 2 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
- 1 tbsp tomato powder
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 6 oz chile con queso
- 6 oz organic black beans
- 1 lime, half juiced and half cut into wedges
- 2 tbsp cilantro crema
- 1 Roma tomato, chopped
- 1 tsp vegetable oil*
- Salt*
- Pepper*
Nutrition (per serving)
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INSTRUCTIONS
Bring large pot of salted water to boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, 8 to 10 minutes. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, drain, and rinse with cool water to stop cooking process. Set aside. (4-servings: reserve ½ cup pasta water)
Heat 1 tsp vegetable oil in same pot over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until softened and beginning to brown, 1 to 3 minutes. Stir in tomato powder and just 2 tsp cumin. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Reduce heat to medium-low and whisk in reserved pasta water and cheese sauce until melted and smooth, 2 to 4 minutes. Stir in cooked pasta and toss to coat. (4-servings: use 2 tsp vegetable oil)
Make small tear at top of black bean bag and microwave for 60 seconds. Transfer to medium bowl and stir in lime juice and a pinch of salt and pepper. (TIP: You can also combine precooked black beans and 1 tbsp water in small saucepan over medium-high heat. Cover and steam until warmed through, 3 to 4 minutes.)
Divide pasta between bowls and drizzle with crema. Top with beans and tomatoes. Serve with lime wedges. Tuck in!