Seasoned beef, vibrant veggies, cheddar, and taco spices create a festive, satisfying dish for spooky celebrations.
# Components:
→ Pasta
01 - 12 ounces rotini or fusilli pasta
→ Proteins
02 - 1 pound ground beef
→ Vegetables
03 - 1 cup diced orange bell pepper
04 - 1 small red onion, diced
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 cup drained and rinsed black beans
07 - 1 cup corn kernels
→ Seasonings
08 - 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
09 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
10 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
11 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
→ Liquids
12 - 1 cup tomato sauce
13 - 1/3 cup water
→ Cheese
14 - 2 cups shredded orange cheddar cheese
15 - 1/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
→ Garnishes (Optional)
16 - Sliced black olives
17 - Chopped fresh cilantro
18 - Sliced jalapeños
19 - Sour cream
# Directions:
01 - Boil rotini or fusilli pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Use Halloween-themed shapes for added festivity.
02 - In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, for 4-5 minutes.
03 - Add diced red onion, orange bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until vegetables soften.
04 - Stir in taco seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
05 - Pour in tomato sauce and water. Bring to a simmer. Add black beans and corn, then cook for 3-4 minutes until the mixture slightly thickens.
06 - Reduce heat to low. Stir in the drained pasta and 1 1/2 cups of shredded orange cheddar cheese. Mix until cheese is melted and ingredients are well combined.
07 - Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and mozzarella (if using) over the top. Cover the skillet and let stand for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and melted.
08 - Garnish with your desired toppings such as sliced black olives, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream. Serve hot.
