Taco Cream Cheese Pasta
This creamy, cheesy, taco-inspired pasta dish is a comforting, flavor-packed weeknight winner your whole family will love. It blends the boldness of taco seasoning with the richness of cream cheese, making it a must-try fusion dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick & Easy: Done in about 30 minutes with pantry staples.
Flavorful Fusion: Combines the best of taco night and pasta night.
Kid-Friendly: Creamy, cheesy, and mild spice great for the whole family.
Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.
Key Ingredients
Ground Beef: Hearty and flavorful base.
Taco Seasoning: Delivers the bold Mexican-inspired flavor.
Cream Cheese & Sour Cream: Adds tangy creaminess to the sauce.
Cheddar Cheese: Melty, gooey topping.
Diced Tomatoes: Brightens the dish and balances the richness.
Pasta: Use your favorite shape—penne, rotini, or shells work great.
Expert Tips
Add Spice: Add a pinch of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce for more heat.
Customize Protein: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based crumbles.
Make It a One-Pot Meal: Cook the pasta first, then reuse the same pot to make cleanup easier.
Pasta Water Magic: Reserve ¼ cup pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Ingredients
8 ounces of pasta (your choice of shape)
1 pound ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. - Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Drain excess grease. - Add Aromatics
Stir in chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened. - Season the Meat
Add taco seasoning and drained diced tomatoes. Simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors. - Make It Creamy
Lower heat. Stir in softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. - Combine with Pasta
Add cooked pasta and toss to coat everything evenly in the creamy taco sauce. - Melt the Cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheddar over the top. Cover skillet and let cheese melt for 2–3 minutes. - Serve
Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley. Serve hot.
Important Notes When Making This Recipe
Soften Cream Cheese First: Let it sit at room temp for easier blending.
Drain Tomatoes Well: Too much liquid will make the sauce runny.
Don’t Overcook Pasta: It’ll finish softening in the skillet.
Great for Meal Prep: Stores well and reheats like a dream.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 520
Protein: 24g
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
(Values will vary based on pasta type and cheese used.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use another meat?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even black beans work great.
How spicy is this?
It’s mildly spicy perfect for most palates. Add more heat if you love it hot.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. It reheats very well. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I bake this dish?
Yes! After combining, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with cheese, and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes.