By Jolene Goodman | Panora Times

The rainy days of April provided me with an opportunity to fill my freezer with a few make-ahead items that I can use this summer like cookie dough, muffins and marinated meats. The sunny days lure me outside to attend to weeds, clean out the dead of winter and lay down new mulch. But it’s not all work and no fun. This outside time also allows me to work on my golf game, ride my bicycle and spend time boating. You may notice that cooking is not on the “fun” list, which brings me to this month’s recipe. As much I love eating most anything homemade, my family craves the box macaroni and cheese. So, I sometimes give in, with a little taco twist. 

Yes, macaroni and cheese is a beloved comfort food that’s easy to make. With just a few extra ingredients and steps, you can turn boxed mac and cheese into a filling dinner. 

To make this Taco Mac and Cheese, simply prepare your favorite boxed mac and cheese according to the package instructions and stir fry the meat and vegetables together. (Hint: You can even chop vegetables the night before to make cooking the next day even easier.) Then add taco seasoning and combine for a better-for-you take on a classic dish. n

Jolene Goodman is the advertising director for Panora Times and vice president of Big Green Umbrella Media.

Taco Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

• 1 box macaroni and cheese
• 1/4 cup milk
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 orange bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 teaspoons taco seasoning

Directions

Prepare boxed mac and cheese with milk and butter according to package instructions.

In skillet, brown ground turkey over medium heat. Add bell peppers and onion. Add taco seasoning.

Stir turkey mixture with mac and cheese to combine.