If you’re in the mood for a dish that combines the best of Mexican and Italian flavors, this Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta is just what you need. With seasoned beef, creamy pasta, and a generous layer of melted cheese, it’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy. Serve it hot and enjoy a comforting, cheesy dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
If you’re craving a comforting and flavorful meal, this Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta is sure to hit the spot. Combining the savory flavors of taco-seasoned beef with creamy pasta and melted cheese, this dish is a delightful fusion of Mexican and Italian cuisine. It’s easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.
INGREDIENTS
- Ziti noodles: 3/4 of a bag, cooked to al dente, providing a hearty base for the dish.
- Ground beef: 1 lb, browned and seasoned, adds a rich and savory flavor.
- Taco seasoning: 1 package, brings a spicy kick to the beef mixture.
- Water: 1 cup, used to help the seasoning mix coat the beef evenly.
- Cream cheese: 1/2 package, melted into the beef for a creamy, tangy sauce.
- Grated cheese: 1 1/2 cups, melted on top for a cheesy finish.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Start by boiling the ziti noodles in a large pot of salted water until they’re cooked to al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside. This will serve as the base for your cheesy, creamy dish.
- Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish from becoming too greasy.
- Step 3: Add Taco Seasoning
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked beef and pour in 1 cup of water. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together, giving the beef a rich, spicy taste.
- Step 4: Incorporate the Cream Cheese
- Add the cream cheese to the beef mixture and stir until it’s fully melted and combined. The cream cheese will create a smooth, creamy sauce that balances out the spices from the taco seasoning. Once melted, remove the skillet from the heat.
- Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese
- In a large baking dish, mix the cooked pasta with 1 cup of grated cheese. Toss them together until the pasta is evenly coated with cheese. This will help create a gooey, cheesy layer in the final dish.
- Step 6: Add the Beef Mixture
- Pour the beef and cream cheese mixture over the pasta in the baking dish. Gently toss the mixture to combine, ensuring the beef and pasta are well mixed.
- Step 7: Top with Cheese and Bake
- Sprinkle the remaining grated cheese over the top of the pasta and beef mixture. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve this Cheesy Taco Cream Cheese Pasta hot, straight from the oven, for the best experience. The melted cheese and creamy sauce are at their peak when the dish is fresh.
- Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread to balance out the richness of the pasta.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop the pasta in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions on medium heat.
- This dish is also freezer-friendly. Prepare it up to the baking step, then cover and freeze. When ready to eat, bake directly from frozen at 350°F, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Helpful Notes
- Feel free to use other types of pasta if you prefer, such as penne or rigatoni. The shape of the pasta will hold the sauce well.
- You can add some diced bell peppers or jalapeños to the beef mixture for extra flavor and a bit of crunch.
- If you like it spicier, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped fresh chili to the beef mixture while it’s cooking.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Gordon Ramsay suggests using freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded for a smoother melt.
- Jamie Oliver recommends mixing in some fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley before baking for an added layer of flavor.
- Nigella Lawson loves adding a squeeze of lime juice to the beef mixture to brighten up the flavors.