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Southwest Ground Beef Pasta

This Southwest Ground Beef Pasta is creamy, cheesy, and full of bold Southwest flavors. Easy to make, flexible with ingredients, and perfect for meal prep!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course, Pasta
Keyword: Southwest Ground Beef Pasta
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 538kcal
Author: Amanda Rettke--iamhomesteader.com

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces penne
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced (about 1 cup)
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced (about ½ cup)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (145 g) corn, fresh, frozen, or canned (drained)
  • 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies, like Rotel, undrained
  • 1 cup (238 g) heavy whipping cream
  • 1 cup (113 g) cheddar cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup (57 g) Monterey Jack, shredded
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • Bringa large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, diced bell pepper, and onion. Season with chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook, breaking up the beef as it cooks, until browned and the vegetables are tender, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  • Stir in the corn and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until heated through and slightly thickened.
  • Reduce heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly
  • Stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack until melted and smooth.
  • Fold in the cooked pasta and stir until evenly coated in the sauce.
  • Sprinkle with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving

Nutrition

Serving: 1portion | Calories: 538kcal