Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta (any type you prefer, like penne, rotini, or spaghetti)
– 1 lb ground beef or chicken (or use ground turkey for a leaner option)
– 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
– 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk (adjust to preferred creaminess)
– 1/2 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot depending on your preference)
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional, for added texture)
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
– 1/4 tsp onion powder (optional)
– Chopped cilantro (for garnish, optional)
– Sour cream (for serving, optional)
Instructions:
1. **Cook the pasta**: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. **Cook the meat**: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or chicken/turkey) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully cooked and browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
3. **Season the meat**: Stir in the taco seasoning (and garlic powder and onion powder, if using) to the meat. Add about 1/4 cup of water and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the seasoning is well combined and the meat is flavorful.
4. **Make the creamy sauce**: Add the cream cheese to the skillet with the seasoned meat. Stir until the cream cheese has melted and combined with the meat. Gradually pour in the milk and stir to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Add the salsa and diced tomatoes (if using) and stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. **Combine the pasta and sauce**: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy taco sauce. Stir everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the cheesy, creamy sauce.
6. **Add the cheese**: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the sauce, making everything super cheesy and creamy.
7. **Season and serve**: Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. If you want it extra creamy, you can add a bit more milk or cream cheese.
8. **Garnish and enjoy**: Serve the cheesy taco cream cheese pasta with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, and maybe some extra shredded cheese on top. You could also serve it with tortilla chips on the side for some crunch!
Optional Add-ins:
– **Black beans** or **corn** for added texture and flavor.
– **Jalapeños** for a spicy kick.
– **Avocado slices** for extra creaminess.
This dish is super creamy, cheesy, and has that taco seasoning flavor we all love! It’s perfect for a comforting weeknight meal. Enjoy! ????