Beefy Tex-Mex Pasta Toss

Our meaty meal comes together with a delicious kick of heat from smoky chipotle pepper and green chilies.

Ingredients

• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• ¼-½ tsp. ground chipotle chili pepper
• 1 (10 oz.) can diced tomatoes & green chilies, such as Ro-Tel
• 1 (8 oz.) can tomato sauce
• 12 oz. penne pasta
• 2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese, 8 oz.
• Fresh basil

Instructions

1. In large nonstick skillet, cook beef, onion and chipotle, stirring occasionally, over medium-high heat until beef is no longer pink, 8-10 min. Add tomatoes and sauce; reduce heat to medium-low. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are tender and flavors blend, about 10 min.
2. Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package directions; drain. Return to pot; toss with 1 cup cheese until melted. Spread over top of beef mixture; sprinkle with remaining cheese. Cover; cook until cheese melts, about 5 min. Garnish with basil.