Loaded Taco with Creamy Cheese Sauce and Flavorful Toppings (Easy 40-Min Recipe)

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning or 2 tablespoons homemade taco spice blend
• 1/4 cup water
• Salt
• freshly ground black pepper
• 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 (red or green), diced
• 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
• 8 to 10 hard taco shells
• Extra shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, for topping
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
• Sour cream, for serving (optional)
• Hot sauce, for serving (optional)