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Cowboy Butter Taco Pasta


  • Author: emilyharper
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Optional Vegetarian

Description

A flavor-filled pasta dish inspired by the heart of Texas, combining bold flavors and buttery goodness.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound pasta (fusilli or rotini)
  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
  • 8 ounces cream cheese
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, stirring occasionally. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain.
  2. Brown the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Brown the ground beef or turkey, seasoning with salt and pepper for about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add the Cowboy Butter: Lower the heat and add the butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in garlic and taco seasoning, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Mix in the Cream: Add cream cheese and sour cream, stirring until melted and creamy. Use reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency if needed.
  5. Combine it All: Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, folding in fresh herbs and half of the cheddar cheese.
  6. Finish it Off: Adjust seasoning, top with remaining cheese, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
  7. Serve Hot: Transfer to a serving bowl and enjoy!

Notes

For a lighter option, substitute half the butter with olive oil. Feel free to mix in additional cheeses or spices to customize.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 600
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 35g
  • Saturated Fat: 20g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: pasta, cowboy butter, taco, Tex-Mex, family-friendly, cheesy