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–+ servings
Taco Cream Cheese Pasta

Irresistible Taco Cream Cheese Pasta for Cozy Nights

This Taco Cream Cheese Pasta is a comforting one-pot dish that blends American and Mexican flavors, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Pasta Shells/Elbow Macaroni Gluten-free options available.
For the Beef
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Turkey or chicken can be used for a leaner option.
  • 1 packet Taco Seasoning Adjust according to heat preference.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Can substitute with olive oil.
  • 1 cup Milk Use whole milk for best creaminess; nut milk can substitute.
  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese Ensure it's softened for easy mixing.
  • 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese Swap for pepper jack for extra heat.
For the Extras
  • 1 can Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies Choose mild or spicy based on preference.
  • to taste Salt and Pepper Essential for seasoning.
  • to taste Optional Garnishes Chopped cilantro, diced green onions, and sour cream.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Large Skillet
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente, about 7-9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it apart until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat and add taco seasoning.
  3. In the same pot, melt butter, whisk in milk and cream cheese until smooth, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted and thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Fold in the drained pasta, browned beef, and diced tomatoes, mixing until evenly coated and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
  6. Season with salt and pepper, serve garnished with cilantro, green onions, or sour cream.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat with a splash of milk for creaminess.

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