Cheesy Beef Pasta Delight
Indulge in this comforting Cheesy Beef Pasta Delight, a perfect weeknight meal that brings together the hearty flavors of ground beef, rich cheddar cheese, and zesty salsa tossed with tender bow tie pasta. This dish is not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser, ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings. With its creamy texture and vibrant toppings, it promises to be a favorite at your table. Share this delightful recipe with friends and savor the deliciousness together!
4
Servings
350
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Bow tie pasta
2 1/2 cups (uncooked)
Ground beef
1 lb (browned and drained)
Green onion
1/2 cup (chopped)
Condensed cheddar cheese soup
1 (10 3/4 ounce) can (canned)
Salsa
1 cup (prepared)
Cheddar and American cheese blend
1 1/2 cups (shredded)
Instructions
1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the uncooked bow tie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it is thoroughly cooked. Drain any excess grease.
3
Add the chopped green onions (reserving 2 tablespoons for garnish), condensed cheddar cheese soup, and salsa to the cooked ground beef. Stir until well combined.
4
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5
Incorporate the cooked pasta into the beef mixture, stirring until everything is heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
6
Sprinkle the shredded cheese blend over the top and cover the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
7
Remove from heat, garnish with reserved green onions, and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Beef Pasta Delight!
Nutrition Information
18g
Fat
30g
Carbs
20g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheesy Beef Pasta Delight?
It is a comforting weeknight meal that combines ground beef, cheddar cheese soup, and salsa with bow tie pasta for a hearty, flavorful dish.
What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 1/2 cups of uncooked bow tie pasta, also known as farfalle.
How much ground beef do I need?
You will need one pound of ground beef, which should be browned and drained before mixing with other ingredients.
What kind of soup is used in the sauce?
The recipe uses one 10 3/4 ounce can of condensed cheddar cheese soup to create a creamy texture.
What kind of salsa should I use?
You can use one cup of any prepared salsa; choose mild, medium, or hot depending on your spice preference.
What type of cheese is recommended for the topping?
A 1 1/2 cup blend of shredded cheddar and American cheese is used for the melty topping.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to provide 4 servings.
What are the nutritional facts for one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, 18g of fat, 30g of carbohydrates, and 20g of protein.
How do I prepare the green onions?
Chop 1/2 cup of green onions, using most in the sauce and reserving 2 tablespoons for a fresh garnish at the end.
How long should I cook the ground beef?
Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until it is thoroughly browned, then drain the excess grease.
How long does the sauce need to simmer?
Once the soup, salsa, and onions are added to the beef, let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
When do I add the cooked pasta to the beef mixture?
Incorporate the cooked pasta after the beef and sauce mixture has finished simmering.
How long do I heat the pasta with the beef?
Stir the pasta and beef mixture together for 3-4 minutes until everything is thoroughly heated through.
How do I get the cheese to melt on top?
Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the skillet, cover it with a lid, and cook for 2-3 minutes until bubbling.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef if you prefer a leaner protein option.
Is this recipe considered a quick dinner?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick dinner and a perfect weeknight meal due to its simple preparation steps.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
While bow tie pasta is recommended, you can easily substitute it with penne, rotini, or shells.
Is this dish spicy?
The spiciness is controlled by the type of salsa you use; a mild salsa will keep the dish kid-friendly.
What makes this dish 'taco-inspired'?
The combination of ground beef, salsa, and cheddar cheese gives it a flavor profile similar to beef tacos.
How should I cook the pasta?
Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package directions until it reaches an al dente texture.
Do I need to add extra salt?
The cheese soup, salsa, and salted pasta water generally provide enough salt, but you can season to taste.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, you can easily add bell peppers, corn, or black beans to the skillet for extra nutrition and texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze this pasta dish?
Yes, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container, though the pasta texture may soften slightly upon reheating.
What is the best way to reheat this meal?
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk or water to loosen the cheese sauce.
Is this a good recipe for kids?
Yes, its creamy, cheesy flavor and familiar ingredients make it very popular with children.
What is the total number of ingredients needed?
You will need 6 main ingredients: pasta, beef, green onions, cheese soup, salsa, and a cheese blend.
Can I use fresh cheddar instead of a blend?
Absolutely, using 1 1/2 cups of freshly shredded sharp cheddar will work perfectly.
What should I serve as a side dish?
A simple green salad or steamed vegetables would complement the rich, cheesy flavors of the pasta.
Do I need to bake this in the oven?
No, this is a one-skillet stovetop recipe, though it has the comforting quality of a baked casserole.