SKILLET TACO PASTA MADE WITH GROUND BEEF

INGREDIENTS

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• ½ of a large white onion, diced
• 8 ounces uncooked medium shell pasta (about 2.5 cups)
• 2 cups water
• 1 15-ounce can petite diced tomatoes
• 1 8-ounce can tomato sauce
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 generous tablespoons sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheese (such as cheddar or Colby)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh tomato, avocado, diced green onion, and black olives for serving

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a large pot or skillet with a lid, add the ground beef and onion, and cook over medium-high heat, stirring often, until the ground beef is cooked through and no longer pink.
2. Add the uncooked pasta, water, diced tomatoes (with the juice), tomato sauce, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt to the pan, and stir to combine well.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer. When the mixture is simmering, reduce the heat to medium, and add the lid.
4. Cook until the pasta is tender, about 12 minutes.
5. When the pasta is tender, stir in sour cream and half of the cheese. Stir until well combined.
6. Place the rest of the cheese on top of the pasta, and add the lid to melt the cheese.
7. When the cheese is melted, add the chopped fresh tomato, avocado, green onions, and black olives and serve hot.
8. We also like this with a little hot sauce and even shredded lettuce for serving.