Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta: A Family Favorite

Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta: A Family Favorite

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s bursting with flavor and incredibly easy to prepare, Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta is the answer. This dish combines the creamy richness of cream cheese with zesty taco seasoning, creating a delicious pasta dish that is sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe takes just about 30 minutes from start to finish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish can be on the table in no time.
• Creamy and Flavorful: The cream cheese adds a rich creaminess that pairs perfectly with the taco seasoning, making each bite indulgent.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your family’s tastes—add vegetables, switch up the proteins, or change the cheese!

Ingredients

To make Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta, you will need:

• 8 oz pasta (any type you like—elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini work well)
• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey/chicken)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning for a personal touch)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained (optional)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish, optional)
• Green onions, chopped (for garnish, optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a bit of the pasta water, and set aside. Step 2: Brown the Meat In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary. Step 3: Combine the Flavors Once the meat is cooked, stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes (if using), and softened cream cheese. Mix until the cream cheese is fully melted and combined. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Step 4: Mix in the Pasta Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy taco mixture. If desired, stir in the sour cream for added creaminess. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Step 5: Add the Cheese Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and incorporated. For an extra cheesy finish, top with additional cheddar cheese. Step 6: Serve and Garnish Serve the Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta warm, garnished with fresh cilantro and green onions if desired. Enjoy this delicious meal with your favorite sides or a simple salad.

Tips for Success

• Add Vegetables: For a nutritional boost, toss in some diced bell peppers or spinach while browning the meat.
• Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe works well with leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked protein you have on hand.
• Make it Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.

Conclusion

Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta is a versatile, comforting dish that’s perfect for the whole family. Its creamy texture and bold flavors make it a favorite at the dinner table. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your weekly me