Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta

Who doesn’t love a mash-up of their favorite flavors? Enter the Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta—a delightful fusion of taco night staples wrapped up in a cozy, creamy pasta dish that’s sure to be a hit with the entire family. Imagine all the savory goodness of spiced ground beef, the rich creaminess of melted cheese, and the comforting embrace of pasta, all in one dish. It’s perfect for those cool evenings when you’re craving something hearty yet fun or when you need a midweek pick-me-up that’ll bring smiles to the dinner table.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a zesty cilantro-lime dressing, adding a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. And for a bit of extra fun, serve it with some crunchy tortilla chips on the side—perfect for scooping or sprinkling on top for a satisfying crunch. Ready to make your new favorite weeknight meal? Let’s get cooking!

Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta
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Ingredients: What You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this delicious dish to life:

1 lb ground beef: The heart of our taco-inspired pasta, bringing savory, meaty goodness.
1 package taco seasoning: For that unmistakable taco flavor we all know and love.
1 lb pasta shells or elbow macaroni: The perfect vessel for soaking up all the creamy, cheesy sauce.
2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps create a velvety sauce.
1 cup milk: For a smooth, creamy base.
8 oz cream cheese, softened: The secret ingredient for an ultra-creamy sauce.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Because no cheesy dish is complete without a generous helping of cheddar.
1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained: Adds a touch of acidity and spice, balancing the richness of the sauce.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring everything together.
Optional garnishes: Chopped cilantro, diced green onions, sour cream—whatever you like to add a little extra flair.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Bringing It All Together
Let’s break it down step by step so you can whip up this delicious meal with ease:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil the pasta: Start by cooking 1 lb of pasta shells or elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, set it aside, and try not to sneak too many bites—though I won’t blame you if you do.

Step 2: Brown the Beef
Cook the beef: In a large skillet, brown 1 lb of ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it apart as it cooks until it’s no longer pink, and your kitchen smells like taco night.

Season: Drain any excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning. This is where the beef gets all its delicious, taco-y flavor. Set it aside for now while we work on the cheesy goodness.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce