CHEESY TACO CREAM CHEESE PASTA

Ingredients:

• 3/4 bag of ziti noodles
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 package taco seasoning
• 1 cup of water
• 1/2 package of cream cheese
• 1 1/2 cups grated cheese (your choice of cheese)

Instructions:

1. Boil the Pasta:
   • Start by boiling the ziti noodles until they are cooked according to the package instructions.
   • Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
   • In a separate pan, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat.
   • Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess grease.
3. Taco Seasoning Mix:
   • Add the package of taco seasoning to the cooked ground beef.
   • Pour in 1 cup of water and mix it with the taco seasoning.
   • Allow the beef and seasoning mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Cream Cheese Addition:
   • Next, add the cream cheese to the beef mixture.
   • Stir the mixture continuously to melt the cream cheese completely.
   • Remove the pan from the heat once the cream cheese is fully melted and well combined with the beef.
5. Combine Pasta and Cheese:
   • Place the cooked and drained ziti noodles in a baking dish.
   • Mix in 1 cup of grated cheese with the pasta.
6. Layering:
   • Now, top the pasta and cheese mixture with the beef and cream cheese mixture.
   • Gently toss the layers together to ensure even distribution.
7. Top with Cheese:
   • Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of grated cheese over the top of the casserole.
8. Bake:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Place the baking dish, uncovered, in the preheated oven.
   • Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
9. Serve:
   • Remove the casserole from the oven, let it cool slightly, and then serve your delicious Taco Ziti Casserole.

Enjoy your flavorful and cheesy taco-inspired pasta casserole.