Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta
This comforting pasta dish combines creamy cheese, bold taco flavors, and hearty ground beef or turkey. It’s a quick and easy weeknight dinner the whole family will love!
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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.
Notes
For extra spice, use a hot salsa or add diced jalapeños. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
Serving: 1servingsCalories: 709kcalCarbohydrates: 44gProtein: 30.2gFat: 32.8gSaturated Fat: 17.3gTrans Fat: 1.1gCholesterol: 103mgSodium: 873mgFiber: 1.8gSugar: 5g