Tacos in Pasta Shells

Tacos in Pasta Shells

18 dried jumbo pasta shells

1 T. butter

1 1/4 lbs. ground beef

3 oz. cream cheese

1 t. chili powder

1 16 oz. jar salsa

1 C. shredded cheddar cheese

Optional garnish: chopped tomatoes and sliced olives

Cook pasta shells according to package directions. Drain and toss with butter.

Brown ground beef in a skillet. Drain off fat. Stir in cream cheese and chili powder until combined. Remove from heat and cool slightly. Divide beef mixture evenly between the pasta shells.

Spread 1/2 C. salsa in the bottom of a greased 2 quart rectangular baking dish. Arrange filled shells in dish. Spoon remaining salsa over the shells. Cover and bake at 350°F. for 15 minutes. Uncover and sprinkle with cheese. Bake for 15 more minutes. Sprinkle with chopped tomatoes and sliced ripe olives.

Serves 6.