Loaded tacos with creamy cheese sauce, seasoned beef, and fresh toppings

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1/4 cup water
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 small bell pepper, diced (red or green)
• 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Red pepper flakes, to taste (optional)
• 8 to 10 hard taco shells
• Extra shredded cheese for topping
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
• Sour cream, for serving (optional)
• Hot sauce, for serving (optional)