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Cheesy Cowboy Pasta Casserole


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  • Author: Lina Judi
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Description

Cheesy Cowboy Pasta Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish packed with flavors of taco seasoning, beans, and cheese. This family-friendly casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners and gatherings, combining pasta, ground beef, and fresh ingredients for a satisfying meal.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni)
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
  • 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped green onions and fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  • Cook the Pasta:
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Cook the Beef:
    • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spatula. Drain any excess grease.
  • Add Seasonings:
    • Stir in the taco seasoning and mix well. Add the diced tomatoes with green chilies, corn, black beans, and beef broth. Simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Combine Pasta and Meat Mixture:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef mixture. Stir in the sour cream and half of the cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
  • Assemble the Casserole:
    • Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Pour the pasta and beef mixture into the prepared dish and spread it out evenly. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese.
  • Bake the Casserole:
    • Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Serve:
    • Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro, if desired.

Notes

  • Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the mixture for extra nutrition.
  • This casserole can be made ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes