Italian-Mexican Pasta Blend (Print)

A filling combo dish mixing taco-flavored ground beef with pasta in a creamy, cheesy mixture - on your table in half an hour!

# Ingredients:

01 - 1 pound ground turkey or beef
02 - 8 ounces of spaghetti (use gluten-free if necessary)
03 - 1 cup of chopped onions
04 - 3 minced garlic cloves
05 - 2 tablespoons of taco spices
06 - 1 cup of broth (beef preferred)
07 - 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
08 - 1 small can (4 oz) of chopped green chilies
09 - 2 teaspoons of soy sauce (optional, or tamari for gluten-free)
10 - 2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce (choose gluten-free if needed, optional)
11 - 1 cup of shredded cheese (pick from cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, etc.)
12 - Salt and black pepper, as much as needed
13 - 2 tablespoons of fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional)

# Steps:

01 - Cook the pasta as directed on the package. Set it aside after draining.
02 - Use a big pan over medium heat. Cook the onions and meat until the meat is no longer pink. If there's too much grease, drain it off.
03 - Once the meat is browned, mix in the minced garlic and taco spices. Stir for about a minute so it smells great.
04 - Pour in the broth, diced green chilies, Worcestershire, soy sauce, and the can of tomatoes. Let everything boil, then turn the heat down and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
05 - Turn off the stove, sprinkle in the shredded cheese, and stir until it’s melted and fully combined.
06 - Mix in the cooked pasta and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss everything together with the cilantro.
07 - Serve while warm. Add toppings you love, like avocado slices, diced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Turn up the heat by adding a chopped jalapeño when cooking the onions.
02 - Want more flavor? Toss in a couple of spoons of tomato paste with the garlic.
03 - Need a protein boost? Stir in a can of drained and rinsed black beans.
04 - Love creamy dishes? Blend in some heavy cream, cream cheese (4 oz), or sour cream with the cheese.
05 - Add more toppings like guacamole, salsa, or more shredded cheese for extra goodness.