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Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 124 reviews

This Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta combines the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef with creamy cheeses and tender pasta shells, creating a comforting and flavorful one-pot meal with a hint of Mexican-inspired zest from diced tomatoes with green chilies.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Seasoning

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 package taco seasoning

Pasta & Dairy

  • 1 lb pasta shells or elbow macaroni
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 cup milk
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Additional Ingredients

  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional garnishes: chopped cilantro (diced)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  2. Add Taco Seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning along with a small amount of water as directed on the seasoning package. Cook for a few minutes until the beef is well coated and the seasoning is absorbed.
  3. Cook the Pasta: Meanwhile, cook the pasta shells or elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  4. Melt Butter and Cream Cheese: In the same skillet with the seasoned beef, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the softened cream cheese and stir continuously until smooth and creamy.
  5. Combine Milk and Cheeses: Gradually pour in the milk while stirring to loosen the cream cheese mixture. Then, add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until fully melted and smooth.
  6. Add Tomatoes and Pasta: Stir in the drained diced tomatoes with green chilies and cooked pasta, mixing until everything is evenly combined and heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
  • For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
  • Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to adapt the recipe for dietary needs.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • This dish can be made ahead and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Keywords: cheesy taco pasta, cream cheese pasta, taco seasoning pasta, ground beef pasta, easy weeknight dinner, Mexican-inspired pasta

Find it online: https://zestywithzane.com/cheesy-taco-cream-cheese-pasta-recipe/