This Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining all the bold flavors of a classic taco with the creamy, cheesy goodness of pasta. With ground beef, taco seasoning, cream cheese, and melted cheddar, this dish is a delicious, easy-to-make dinner that the whole family will love. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight meal or when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot depending on your preference)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
- 1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite type)
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
- Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta water and set it aside. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
Step 3: Add Taco Seasoning
Stir in the taco seasoning and ½ cup of water, mixing well to coat the beef in the seasoning. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Add Cream Cheese and Salsa
Reduce the heat to low, then add the cream cheese and salsa to the skillet. Stir constantly until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the taco meat, creating a smooth, creamy sauce.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it in the cheesy taco cream sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up to your desired consistency.
Step 6: Add Shredded Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the pasta and stir until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your cheesy taco pasta!
Cooking Notes
- Taco Seasoning: You can use store-bought taco seasoning for convenience, but if you prefer homemade, you can mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and a pinch of cayenne pepper to make your own seasoning blend.
- Salsa Options: Feel free to use any type of salsa you like—mild, medium, or hot depending on your heat preference. You can also use pico de gallo or a jar of rotel for extra flavor.
- Pasta Choice: This recipe works well with short pasta types like penne, rotini, or fusilli, as they hold the sauce nicely.
Variations
1. Chicken Taco Cream Cheese Pasta
Replace the ground beef with shredded chicken or diced cooked chicken for a lighter version. You can use rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut.
2. Vegetarian Taco Pasta
For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and use black beans, pinto beans, or a mixture of sautéed mushroomsand bell peppers as the base. The beans add plenty of protein, and the veggies give a delicious texture.
3. Spicy Cheesy Taco Pasta
If you like heat, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce when you add the salsa. You can also use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
4. Taco Bake
Transfer the taco pasta mixture to a casserole dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutesuntil the cheese is bubbly and golden for a delicious taco pasta bake.
Keto Version and Low-Carb Adjustments
For a keto-friendly version of this dish, replace the pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. Make sure the taco seasoning and salsa are low-carb and sugar-free. The creamy, cheesy sauce and taco meat will taste just as delicious with these low-carb pasta substitutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the taco meat and sauce ahead of time, then cook the pasta just before serving. Store the meat sauce in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat before tossing with freshly cooked pasta.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! You can swap the cheddar for Monterey Jack, Colby, or Pepper Jack for extra flavor. A blend of different cheeses will make the pasta even creamier.
Q: Is there a dairy-free option?
Yes, you can use dairy-free cream cheese and dairy-free shredded cheese to make a dairy-free version of this dish. Choose a dairy-free brand of taco seasoning and salsa as well.
This Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta is a delicious fusion of tacos and pasta that’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of bold taco flavors, making it the ultimate comfort food. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Give this recipe a try, and your family will be asking for seconds!
