CHEESY TACO CREAM CHEESE PASTA

INGREDIENTS:

1 pound pasta (such as penne or rotini)
1 pound ground beef or turkey
1 packet taco seasoning mix
1 cup salsa
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

DIRECTIONS:

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.

Sprinkle the taco seasoning mix over the cooked meat and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Add the salsa to the skillet and stir to incorporate it with the seasoned meat. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Reduce the heat to low and add the softened cream cheese to the skillet …