Taco Shells and Cheese

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Kosher salt

1 pound small pasta shells

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 tablespoons butter

1 pound ground beef

2 teaspoons chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon paprika

One 10-ounce can diced tomatoes and green chiles, such as Rotel

1/2 cup hot water

Freshly ground black pepper

2 cups milk, plus more if needed for thinning

8 ounces processed cheese, such as Velveeta, diced

2 1/2 cups grated Cheddar jack cheese

1 teaspoon dried cilantro

Sour cream and jarred salsa, for serving, optional