Creamy Taco Mac

Before I talk about this to die for dish, I want to say thank you to everyone for your comments on my brisket failure yesterday.  I so appreciate all the tips and ideas.  It's so wonderful to be able to post about something that didn't turn out as planned and not get laughed at!  Instead I got encouragement and some really good ideas.  So many that I'm even considering making this again...and that was not the case when I wrote out the post Sunday night!  So, thank you to all who piped up yesterday.. your help and ideas are greatly appreciated!

I have found heaven in a bowl...would you like to join me?  OMG this pasta was fantastic!  Another find from Annie's Eats...she's got some extremely decadent ideas over there, you gotta go check it out!

Honestly, I think the pictures sort of speak for themselves.  Look at that creamy texture...the beefy goodness...mmmmmm... this is just a good, comforting meal.  It's definitely not for the people who are watching their weight, but if you are looking for perfect comfort food for a cold fall/winter night that won't break the bank and will satisfy everyone in the family... you have got to try this.  Add a salad along side it if it makes you feel healthier.  Though, I believe a good piece (or two) of crusty warm bread is the better compliment to this meal....but that's just me!

Creamy Taco Mac
Adapted from Annie's Eats
Printable Recipe 
Ingredients:
1 lb. 90% lean ground beef
8oz elbow macaroni
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 shallot, finely diced
1 garlic clove, minced
1 (14oz) can of diced tomatoes, partially drained
4 Tablespoons taco seasoning (find homemade recipe here)
3 oz cream cheese
1/2 cup reduced fat sour cream
salt and pepper

Directions:
Cook pasta according to package directions.  Drain; reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat.  Add the shallots and saute for 3 minutes.  Add the ground beef and cook until the meat is no longer pink, about 5 minutes.  Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.  Mix in the diced tomatoes and taco seasoning and let simmer over medium low heat for about 5 minutes.  Stir in the cream cheese and sour cream; mix until smooth.  Let simmer 1 minute.  Add the pasta and toss to coat.  If the sauce is too thick, thin it out with the reserved pasta water.  Season with salt and pepper.  Enjoy!