The Gathered Kind

🌮 Ingredients

• 2 lb box of elbow macaroni
  
• 3 Velveeta liquid cheese pouches
  
• 1 lb ground beef
  
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or to taste)
  
• ½ jar of your favorite salsa (we love one with a little kick!)
  
• Optional toppings: crushed tortilla chips, sour cream, shredded cheese, jalapeños
  

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
   
2. While pasta cooks, brown the ground beef in a large skillet. Drain fat if needed.
   
3. Add taco seasoning to the beef (use the packet instructions or season to your taste).
   
4. In a large pot, combine cooked pasta, taco beef, Velveeta cheese pouches, and salsa.
   
5. Stir over low heat until everything is creamy and evenly coated.
   
6. Serve hot and top with crushed chips or your favorite taco toppings if desired.
   

🧡 Why We Love It

• It’s taco night and mac night—combined.
  
• Feeds everyone with enough for seconds or lunch leftovers.
  
• Minimal prep. Minimal dishes. Maximum flavor.
  
• Perfect for picky eaters and easily customized for spice lovers or plain Janes.
  
• Freezer-friendly—make ahead and freeze in portions for crazy nights.

🍽️ Looking for more big-family meal ideas that keep the chaos under control?
Check out the full roundup: Feeding the Chaos: 5 Big Family Recipes That Save My Sanity
Trust me—you’re gonna want to save them all. 💛