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+ servings

Cheesy Taco Pasta

A bubbling pot of cheesy taco pasta with spiced beef and melted cheese, perfect for family gatherings and cozy dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Pasta Penne or rotini works great
  • 1 pinch Salt To season the pasta water
For the Taco Sauce
  • 1 lb Ground beef or turkey Can substitute with plant-based alternatives
  • 2 tbsp Taco seasoning Homemade blends can elevate the flavor
  • 14.5 oz Diced tomatoes Canned works just as well
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 8 oz Cream cheese Creates a creamy base
  • 2 cup Cheddar cheese Shredded sharp cheddar
  • 1 cup Milk Adjust based on desired richness

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and bell peppers, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until soft.
  3. Stir in ground beef or turkey to the skillet, cooking until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
  4. Sprinkle in taco seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika into the meat mixture. Stir well, adding a splash of water if needed.
  5. Lower the heat and add cooked pasta, diced tomatoes, and cream cheese. Stir gently until well mixed and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
  6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture. Cover with a lid for 2-3 minutes to let the cheese melt.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or sliced jalapeños. Optional: Top with crushed tortilla chips.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Cook pasta al dente to avoid mushiness; it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.

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