Description
This creamy pasta is loaded with taco-seasoned beef, cream cheese, and melty cheese for a deliciously indulgent dinner.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your choice)
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup (120 g) shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Taco Seasoning:
- Stir in the taco seasoning and 1/2 cup water. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add Tomatoes and Cream Cheese:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained) and the softened cream cheese. Cook, stirring, until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated.
- Combine with Pasta:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir well to coat the pasta in the creamy taco sauce. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Add Cheddar Cheese:
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. For an extra touch of creaminess, mix in sour cream before serving.
- Serve:
- Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra spice, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the taco beef mixture.
- You can substitute ground chicken or a plant-based alternative for a different protein option.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.