Cheesy Taco-Roni Delight
This delightful twist on the classic Beefaroni brings together hearty flavors of beef, tomatoes, and black beans, enhanced with the sweetness of corn and the earthiness of cumin. Topped with a gooey layer of reduced-fat Mexican cheese and crunchy tortilla chips, this comforting dish is not only quick to prepare, but is also perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying and flavorful. Serve it straight from the pan for a delightful family meal or keep it in the fridge for a delicious lunch option!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Chef Boyardee Beefaroni
2 (15 ounce cans)
Hunt's Diced Tomatoes
1 (14 1/2 ounce can, drained)
Rosarita Premium Whole Black Beans
1 (15 ounce can, drained and rinsed)
Frozen Whole Kernel Corn
1 (cup)
Ground Cumin
1 (teaspoon)
Shredded Reduced-Fat Mexican Cheese Blend
1/4 (cup)
Broken Yellow Tortilla Chips
1/2 (cup)
Instructions
1
In a large saucepan over medium heat, add the Chef Boyardee Beefaroni along with the drained Hunt's diced tomatoes, drained and rinsed Rosarita black beans, frozen corn, and ground cumin.
2
Stir the mixture well to combine all ingredients evenly.
3
Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a lid. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5
After simmering, remove the lid and stir the mixture again. Sprinkle top with shredded Mexican cheese blend and broken tortilla chips.
6
Cover the saucepan again for a couple of minutes until the cheese melts.
7
Serve hot and enjoy the savory blend of tastes!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheesy Taco-Roni Delight?
It is a flavorful twist on the classic Beefaroni that incorporates beef, tomatoes, black beans, corn, and cumin, finished with a layer of melted Mexican cheese and crunchy tortilla chips.
What are the main ingredients for this recipe?
The main ingredients include Chef Boyardee Beefaroni, Hunt's diced tomatoes, Rosarita black beans, frozen corn, ground cumin, Mexican cheese blend, and broken yellow tortilla chips.
How many cans of Beefaroni do I need?
You will need two 15-ounce cans of Chef Boyardee Beefaroni for this recipe.
Do I need to drain the tomatoes?
Yes, you should drain the 14.5-ounce can of Hunt's diced tomatoes before adding them to the saucepan.
Should the black beans be rinsed?
Yes, the Rosarita black beans should be both drained and rinsed before being combined with the other ingredients.
What type of corn is used?
The recipe calls for one cup of frozen whole kernel corn to add sweetness and texture.
How much cumin is added to the dish?
One teaspoon of ground cumin is used to provide an earthy, taco-inspired flavor profile.
What kind of cheese is best for this recipe?
A shredded reduced-fat Mexican cheese blend is recommended for a gooey, flavorful topping.
When do I add the tortilla chips?
The broken yellow tortilla chips are sprinkled on top of the mixture after the simmering process is complete, right before melting the cheese.
How long should the mixture simmer?
The dish should simmer covered for about 15 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together properly.
What is the initial cooking heat setting?
Start by combining ingredients in a large saucepan over medium heat, then increase the heat to bring it to a gentle boil.
Is this a one-pot meal?
Yes, this entire recipe is prepared in a single large saucepan, making it very easy for cleanup.
How do I melt the cheese on top?
After sprinkling the cheese over the dish, cover the saucepan again for a couple of minutes until the cheese has melted.
Can I store leftovers in the refrigerator?
Yes, this dish keeps well in the fridge and makes a delicious option for lunch the next day.
Is this recipe quick to prepare?
Yes, it is designed to be a quick meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Does the recipe contain protein?
Yes, it contains protein from the beef in the Beefaroni as well as the black beans.
What texture do the tortilla chips add?
The broken tortilla chips provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the soft pasta and beans.
Can I use any brand of black beans?
While the recipe mentions Rosarita Premium Whole Black Beans, any standard 15-ounce can of black beans will work.
How do I prevent the food from sticking to the pan?
You should stir the mixture occasionally while bringing it to a boil and before you begin the simmering process.
What makes this dish Mexican-inspired?
The combination of black beans, cumin, Mexican cheese blend, and tortilla chips gives the classic pasta dish a Mexican flair.
Is this dish suitable for families?
Yes, it is described as a comforting dish that is perfect for a satisfying family meal.
How much cheese is required?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of shredded reduced-fat Mexican cheese blend.
Do I need to add extra water?
No extra water is needed, as the sauce from the Beefaroni and the moisture from the other ingredients are sufficient.
Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Yes, you can substitute one cup of fresh whole kernel corn if frozen corn is not available.
What size saucepan is needed?
A large saucepan is recommended to accommodate all ingredients and allow for easy stirring.
How should the tortilla chips be prepared?
The chips should be broken into smaller pieces before being sprinkled over the top of the dish.
Is the dish served hot or cold?
This dish is best enjoyed served hot, immediately after the cheese has melted.
Can I use regular Mexican cheese instead of reduced-fat?
Yes, you can use regular full-fat Mexican cheese blend if you prefer a richer flavor.
What gives the dish its 'hearty' flavor?
The combination of beef from the pasta, the fiber-rich black beans, and the earthy notes of cumin create its hearty flavor.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 main ingredients used to create the Cheesy Taco-Roni Delight.