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Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta: The Ultimate Comfort Dish

If you love tacos, pasta, and cheesy comfort food, this Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta is about to become your new favorite dinner! Imagine perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a rich, creamy, taco-seasoned beef sauce, and topped with gooey melted cheese—it’s like a taco and baked ziti had a delicious baby.

This recipe is easy, affordable, and family-friendly, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or potluck dish. With simple pantry ingredients and a short prep time, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal on the table in no time!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 40 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
✔ Taco + Pasta Fusion – The best of both worlds in one cheesy dish.
✔ Budget-Friendly – Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
✔ Crowd-Pleasing – Even the pickiest eaters love this cheesy goodness.
✔ Great for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day!

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The Best Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta Recipe

This recipe brings together the bold flavors of taco-seasoned ground beef, the rich creaminess of cream cheese, and melty cheddar cheese to create a hearty and satisfying pasta dish.

Ingredients (Serves 6)

For the Pasta & Meat Sauce:

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini work best)
• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning)
• 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, drained
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• ½ cup beef broth (or water)
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional for extra depth)
• ½ teaspoon cumin (optional for extra taco flavor)

For the Topping:

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
• ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• Fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped (for garnish)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 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.

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2. Brown the Ground Beef

• In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium-high heat until browned (about 5-7 minutes).
• Drain any excess grease.

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3. Add Seasonings & Tomatoes

• Stir in garlic, taco seasoning, Rotel tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin.
• Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

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4. Melt the Cream Cheese

• Reduce heat to low and add the cream cheese, stirring until fully melted and incorporated into the sauce (about 3 minutes).

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5. Combine with Pasta

• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir until fully coated in the cheesy taco sauce.

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6. Assemble & Bake

• Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Sprinkle the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top.
• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

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7. Garnish & Serve

• Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
• Sprinkle with fresh cilantro or green onions.
• Serve hot and cheesy, with a side of tortilla chips, garlic bread, or a fresh salad.

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Tips for the Best Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta

✅ Use freshly shredded cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
✅ Let the cream cheese soften – This makes it easier to melt into the sauce.
✅ Don’t overcook the pasta – Since it will bake in the oven, slightly undercook it so it stays firm.
✅ Adjust spice level – Use mild Rotel for less heat or add cayenne for extra spice.
✅ Make it creamier – Add ½ cup sour cream or heavy cream for an even richer texture.

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Variations & Customizations

This cheesy taco pasta is super versatile! Try these fun twists:

1. Spicy Cheesy Taco Pasta

🔥 Add chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.
🔥 Use spicy taco seasoning for extra heat.
🔥 Drizzle with hot sauce before serving.

2. One-Pot Stovetop Version

🍲 Skip the baking step and serve straight from the skillet.
🍲 Let the cheese melt on top while stirring over low heat.

3. Low-Carb Keto Version

🥦 Swap pasta for cauliflower or zucchini noodles.
🥦 Use full-fat cream cheese and extra cheddar for a richer, low-carb meal.

4. Vegetarian Taco Pasta

🌱 Swap the beef for black beans, lentils, or plant-based crumbles.
🌱 Add extra veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn.

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What to Serve with Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta

This dish is hearty on its own, but here are some delicious pairings:

🥗 Mexican Street Corn Salad – Adds a fresh, tangy contrast.
🌮 Cheesy Quesadillas – Extra melty goodness on the side.
🥑 Guacamole & Tortilla Chips – Because everything is better with guac!
🥖 Garlic Bread – A warm, crispy side to soak up the sauce.
🍹 Margaritas or Horchata – Perfect drinks to complete the meal.

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How to Store & Reheat

This pasta stores well, making it great for leftovers!

Storing:

• Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to keep it creamy.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
• Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.

Freezing:

• Freeze before baking: Assemble the dish, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• To bake from frozen: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake at 375°F for 25 minutes.

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Final Thoughts: The Perfect Cheesy Taco Pasta

If you’re looking for a quick, cheesy, and satisfying dinner, Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta is the answer! It’s creamy, packed with taco flavor, and irresistibly cheesy—perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep.

🔥 Try it tonight and get ready for a new favorite! 🔥

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