Cook pasta according to package but undercook it by about 2-3 minutes (it will continue to cook in the oven and you don't want it overcooked and mushy), rinse under cold water. Place pasta in a 9x13 casserole/baking dish.

Brown meat in a skillet and drain if necessary.  Return to medium heat and add taco packet and water and cook about 5 minutes.

Add the cream cheese to the meat mixture and stir until combined.  Remove from heat.

Stir in 1 C shredded cheese to meat mixture.

Pour meat mixture over pasta and stir to combine.

Top with remaining ½ C cheese.

Bake uncovered 350 for 25-30 minutes.