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CHEESY TACO CREAM CHEESE PASTA

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.

Ingredients

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)

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.

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.

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.

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).

5. Combine with Pasta

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

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.

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.

Notes

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.

  • Author: niold.com