Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta combines the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef with a creamy, cheesy pasta sauce that’s perfect for taco lovers. It’s a simple, quick, and indulgent meal that is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a family-friendly meal. With taco seasoning, cream cheese, and melted cheddar, this dish will satisfy any comfort food craving.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot, depending on your preference)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 cup diced bell peppers for extra crunch
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes for spice
For Garnishing:
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- Jalapeños, sliced
- Sour cream
- Extra salsa
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned.
- Drain any excess fat from the beef, then add the onion and garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Season the Beef
- Stir in the taco seasoning, salsa, and beef broth (or water). Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
- Add the cream cheese and sour cream to the beef mixture, stirring until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta in the cheesy taco cream sauce.
- If the mixture is too thick, add a little more broth or water to loosen the sauce until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Serve the Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta hot, topped with extra shredded cheese and your choice of garnishes like fresh cilantro, jalapeños, or sour cream.
Cooking Notes
- Pasta: Any short pasta shape works well, such as penne, rotini, or rigatoni.
- Ground Beef: You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter version of this dish.
Variations
1. Spicy Taco Pasta
Add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick. You can also use hot salsa for extra heat.
2. Taco Chicken Cream Cheese Pasta
Swap the ground beef for cooked shredded chicken for a taco chicken version. You can use rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken.
3. Vegetarian Taco Pasta
Replace the ground beef with black beans, pinto beans, or a mix of veggies like corn and bell peppers for a vegetarian version.
4. Baked Taco Pasta
For a baked version, transfer the pasta to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
5. Taco Mac and Cheese
Add 1 cup of cooked macaroni to the taco beef mixture and increase the amount of cheese for a richer, creamier pasta dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and reheat it before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Q: Can I freeze Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta?
Yes, this dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Q: Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! You can use a mix of Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or Colby for different flavors. Just make sure the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce.
Q: Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta for this recipe. Just cook it according to the package instructions and proceed with the rest of the recipe as usual.
This Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta is a quick, flavorful, and creamy pasta dish that combines all the flavors of tacos in a delicious, easy-to-make meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or whenever you’re craving a comforting, cheesy pasta with a taco twist. Customize it with your favorite toppings and enjoy!
