Taco pasta

Cheesy Taco Pasta with Hamburger Meat

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) ground hamburger meat
• 1 can (10 oz/283g) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
• 2 cups (200g) egg noodles, cooked according to package instructions
• 1/2 pound (225g) Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Sour cream, sliced green onions, and sliced jalapeños (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

1. Brown the Hamburger Meat: In a large skillet, brown the ground hamburger meat over medium-high heat. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add Rotel and Seasoning: To the cooked meat, add the can of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (undrained). Stir in the taco seasoning and chili powder if using. Mix well to combine the flavors.
3. Incorporate Velveeta: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the cubed Velveeta cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and forms a creamy sauce with the meat and tomatoes.
4. Cook the Noodles: While preparing the meat mixture, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Combine Everything: Add the cooked and drained egg noodles to the skillet with the meat and cheese mixture. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the noodles are well coated with the cheesy taco sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a little water to reach your desired consistency.
6. Season and Garnish: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper if needed. Remember, the taco seasoning and Velveeta already add salt, so be sure to taste before adding more. Stir well to incorporate the seasoning.
7. Serve: Transfer the cheesy taco pasta to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. If desired, serve with dollops of sour cream, sliced green onions, and sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
8. Enjoy: Serve the cheesy taco pasta hot and enjoy your delicious and comforting meal!