Name: CHEESY TACO CREAM CHEESE PASTA
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: PT-481248H32M29S
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: Ziti noodles; Ground beef; Taco seasoning; Cream cheese; Grated cheese

Looking for a delicious twist on traditional taco night? Look no further than this mouthwatering Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta recipe! Combining the flavors of savory ground beef, zesty taco seasoning, creamy cream cheese, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create this irresistible dish!

Ingredients:

3/4 bag of ziti noodles

01 lb ground beef

1 package taco seasoning

1 cup of water

1/2 package of cream cheese

1 1/2 cups grated cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)

Instructions:

Boil the ziti noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it is fully cooked. Use a spatula to break up the meat into crumbles as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked ground beef, then pour in the water. Stir well to combine, ensuring that the seasoning is evenly distributed. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Cut the cream cheese into small chunks and add it to the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the beef mixture. Remove the skillet from the heat.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large baking dish, combine the cooked ziti noodles with 1 cup of grated cheese. Toss gently to evenly distribute the cheese throughout the pasta.
Pour the beef mixture over the pasta and cheese mixture in the baking dish. Use a spatula to gently toss everything together, ensuring that the beef mixture is evenly distributed.
Sprinkle the remaining grated cheese over the top of the pasta and beef mixture, creating a generous layer of cheesy goodness.

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven, uncovered, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serve the Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as chopped fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream.

Enjoy this delicious and satisfying meal with family and friends!

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Suggestions: Serve this Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta hot straight from the oven for the best flavor and texture. Garnish each serving with your favorite taco toppings such as diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, chopped fresh cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream. You can also serve it alongside a crisp green salad or some warm garlic bread for a complete meal.
Portioning: When serving, use a large spoon or spatula to scoop out generous portions of the pasta onto individual plates. Make sure to include plenty of the cheesy beef mixture in each serving for maximum enjoyment.

Family Style: Alternatively, you can serve this dish family-style by placing the baking dish on the table and letting everyone help themselves. This is a great option for casual gatherings or potluck dinners.
Storage: If you have any leftovers, allow the Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you can microwave individual portions or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Freezing: This dish can also be frozen for longer-term storage. Transfer cooled leftovers to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw the pasta overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Meal Prep: Consider making a double batch of Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta and portioning it into individual servings for easy meal prep. Store the portions in separate containers and grab one for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner throughout the week. It’s a convenient option for busy days when you need a delicious meal in a hurry.

Related recipes:

TACO PIZZA

FAQs:

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can easily substitute ziti noodles with other types of pasta such as penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose. The key is to use a sturdy pasta shape that can hold up well to the hearty beef and cheese sauce.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?

Absolutely! You can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with plant-based alternatives such as vegetarian crumbles, tofu, or lentils. Simply cook the vegetarian protein according to package instructions and proceed with the recipe as usual. You’ll still get all the delicious flavors of the taco seasoning and creamy cheese sauce without the meat.

Can I customize the level of spice in this dish?

Yes, you can adjust the level of spice in this dish to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use less taco seasoning or opt for a mild variety. Conversely, if you like it spicy, you can add extra taco seasoning or incorporate diced green chilies or jalapeños into the beef mixture for an added kick. Feel free to experiment with different levels of heat until you find the perfect balance for your palate.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta ahead of time for added convenience. You can assemble the dish up to the point of baking, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply remove it from the refrigerator, uncover, and bake according to the recipe instructions. It’s a great option for meal prepping or entertaining, allowing you to have a delicious homemade meal ready to go with minimal effort.

Conclusion:

With its irresistible combination of flavors and textures, Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta is sure to be a hit at your next mealtime gathering. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this easy-to-make dish will leave everyone coming back for seconds. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and whip up a batch tonight for a dinner that’s guaranteed to please!

📖 Recipe: