This Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta is a flavorful fusion of taco spices and creamy pasta goodness. With perfectly cooked pasta, seasoned ground beef or turkey, tangy salsa, and a rich cream cheese sauce, this dish delivers all the bold flavors you love in tacos, wrapped up in a comforting, cheesy pasta dish.
Finished with melted cheddar and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, it’s a quick and easy dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying. Serve it hot and watch it become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you love tacos and creamy pasta dishes, this Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta is a match made in comfort food heaven. It’s a quick, one-pan dinner that’s rich, cheesy, and packed with bold taco flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe combines the savory goodness of taco-seasoned meat with a creamy, tangy sauce that clings to every bite of pasta. Plus, it’s highly customizable, so you can tailor it to your family’s preferences. With minimal prep and just a handful of pantry staples, it’s an easy crowd-pleaser that delivers big flavor in every forkful.
Key Ingredients
Pasta: Use a short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells. Their ridges and curves hold onto the creamy taco sauce perfectly.
Ground Beef or Turkey: Either protein works great for the base of this dish. Ground turkey offers a leaner option, while ground beef brings a richer flavor.
Taco Seasoning: A convenient seasoning packet adds all the spices you need for a classic taco flavor. You can also make your own blend with chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder.
Salsa: Provides a tangy, slightly spicy element to the sauce. Use your favorite store-bought salsa or homemade for a personal touch.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese melts into the sauce, creating a luscious, creamy base that balances the spices.
Cheddar Cheese: Adds gooey, melty cheesiness to the dish. Feel free to use a blend of cheeses, like Monterey Jack or Colby, for added flavor.
Cilantro: Optional but recommended, cilantro adds a fresh, vibrant finish to the dish.
Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook 1 pound of pasta (penne or rotini) until al dente, about 8–10 minutes.
Drain and set aside, drizzling with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Cook the Meat:
In a large skillet, brown 1 pound of ground beef or turkey over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks, for 7–10 minutes.
Add 1 packet of taco seasoning, stir to coat the meat, and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes.
Add Salsa and Cream Cheese:
Stir in 1 cup of salsa and cook for 2–3 minutes.
Reduce heat to low and add 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, stirring until fully melted and blended into the meat mixture.
Combine with Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat with the creamy taco sauce.
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta and stir until melted and evenly mixed.
Season and Garnish:
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for added flavor and presentation.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with complementary sides can elevate your meal:
Side Dishes: Serve with a side of refried beans, Mexican rice, or a light salad with lime vinaigrette.
Toppings: Customize individual servings with diced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips for added crunch.
Drinks: Pair with a refreshing beverage like a lime spritzer, horchata, or a classic margarita (if you’re feeling festive!).
Storage and Tips
Storing Leftovers:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Freezing:
While this dish can be frozen, cream cheese-based sauces may change texture slightly when reheated. For best results, freeze only the meat sauce and add freshly cooked pasta and cheese after thawing and reheating.
Tips for Success:
Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercooked pasta will finish cooking when combined with the sauce, ensuring it doesn’t become mushy.
Soften Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to prevent lumps in the sauce. You can microwave it for 10–15 seconds if needed.
Adjust Spice Level: Use mild, medium, or hot salsa depending on your preferred heat level. Add a pinch of cayenne or a splash of hot sauce for extra spice.
Variations
This recipe is easy to adapt based on your preferences or what you have on hand:
Protein Alternatives: Swap the ground beef or turkey for shredded chicken, ground pork, or even black beans for a vegetarian option.
Cheese Blend: Use a mix of cheeses like Pepper Jack, queso fresco, or mozzarella for a unique flavor twist.
Vegetable Add-Ins: Stir in sautéed bell peppers, onions, or corn for added texture and color.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
Low-Carb Option: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly version.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta is the perfect fusion of taco night and pasta night in one easy dish. The creamy sauce, bold taco spices, and cheesy goodness create a satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or indulging in comfort food cravings, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Garnish with cilantro, grab your fork, and dive into a plate of taco-inspired deliciousness! It’s so good, you might just want seconds.
Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 pound pasta such as penne or rotini
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 cup salsa
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook 1 pound of pasta (penne or rotini) until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside, drizzling with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet, brown 1 pound of ground beef or turkey over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks, for 7–10 minutes. Add 1 packet of taco seasoning, stir to coat the meat, and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in 1 cup of salsa and cook for 2–3 minutes. Reduce heat to low and add 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, stirring until fully melted and blended into the meat mixture.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat with the creamy taco sauce. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta and stir until melted and evenly mixed.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for added flavor and presentation.
