When is Dinner

Taco Pasta Bake:

My family loves Tacos, and Pasta, so I thought that combining the two would be a huge hit, and it was! Here is how I put this recipe together:

First, I browned just over a pound of ground beef. The amount doesn’t have to be exact, my local store never sells exactly one pound. This one was probably closer to 1.25 pounds. While it’s browning, I place my small colander over a bowl. When the meat is good and brown, I pour it into the colander and use the spatula to stir and mash it to make sure all of the grease drains out the bottom of the colander. We don’t like greasy meat, and when it’s cool (but before it solidifies) I pour it into the trash can.

Next, put the strained meat back into the skillet and use a taco seasoning packet and 3/4 cup of water to season the meat. Let it cook until the seasoning is absorbed and the water has cooked out. Add the Cream Cheese until it is mixed through.

Meanwhile, Cook your pasta, and when it is done and has been drained, pour it into your baking dish.  I used a 9×9 pan. Add your shredded cheese on top.

Add the beef mixture, and stir it all up so it’s mixed well. Then bake uncovered at 35o for about 30 minutes.

I had some extra cheese left, so when I pulled it out of the oven, I sprinkled it on top and let it melt before serving.

I plated it and served it to my family. They loved every last bite, and in fact, there were NO leftovers for lunch the next day!

This recipe is partying at:

• Beef Recipe Roundup
• Recipe Round Up – Dinner in Under an Hour!