Hearty Chili Beef Pasta Bake

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
  
• 1 onion, diced
  
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
  
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
  
• 1 teaspoon cumin
  
• 1 teaspoon paprika
  
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
  
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
  
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
  
• 1 cup beef broth
  
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  
• 8 oz uncooked penne or rigatoni pasta
  
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  
• Salt and black pepper to taste
  
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
  
  
  

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large skillet or pot, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it browns. Drain any excess fat.

3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.

4. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

5. Add the drained kidney beans and uncooked pasta to the skillet. Stir well to combine.

6. Transfer the chili beef pasta mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish or a large oven-safe skillet.

7. Top the pasta evenly with the shredded cheddar cheese.

8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

9. Remove the chili beef pasta bake from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.

10. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy this hearty and flavorful chili beef pasta bake for a comforting and satisfying dinner!