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.