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Tex-Mex Style Macaroni with Beef

50 min 6 servings Easy
Tex-Mex Style Macaroni with Beef is a hearty and flavourful casserole that brings the vibrant tastes of Tex-Mex cuisine to your dining table. This dish combines macaroni pasta with seasoned ground beef, beans, and a blend of spices for a meal that is both comforting and exciting. Perfect for a family dinner or a potluck, this casserole is easy to prepare and sure to please even the pickiest eaters. The mix of melted cheese and zesty flavours makes it a crowd-pleaser, while the use of pantry staples ensures it's accessible for everyday cooking.

Ingredients

Servings
6

Main Ingredients

Instructions

1

Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Pro tip: Add a teaspoon of oil to the water to prevent sticking.

2

Brown the beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.

Pro tip: Ensure the beef reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

3

Sauté vegetables

Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

Pro tip: Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.

4

Add spices and beans

Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the black beans and salsa, mixing well to combine.

Pro tip: Adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder if desired.

5

Combine with pasta

Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet, stirring to coat the pasta evenly with the beef and sauce mixture.

Pro tip: Ensure the pasta is well mixed to absorb the flavours.

6

Bake the casserole

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Transfer the mixture to a 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Pro tip: For a golden crust, broil for an additional 2 minutes.

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Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Use freshly grated cheese for better melting.</li><li>Rinse the canned beans to reduce sodium.</li><li>Adjust the spiciness with more or less chili powder.</li><li>Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving to firm up.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Tex-Mex Style Macaroni with a fresh green salad or cornbread to complete the meal. For a fun twist, you can top it with crushed tortilla chips just before serving for added crunch. This casserole can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in an oven preheated to 180°C (350°F) until heated through.
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