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. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and blended with the meat and salsa mixture.

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly with the creamy sauce.

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta and stir until the cheese is melted and the pasta is well coated.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired, before serving.