A comforting dish combines hearty ground beef, cheesy noodles, and flavorful taco spices for a family-friendly meal everyone will love. It's easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights when you want something warm and satisfying.
Prep Time14 min
Total Time15 min
Difficulty
Easy
Pro Cooking Tips
Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease in the dish.
Make sure to cook the noodles al dente since they will continue to soften in the oven.
For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder to the beef mixture.
Ingredients
0/10
What Makes This Recipe Special
This dish combines the hearty flavors of seasoned beef with comforting pasta, creating a meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. It’s a perfect blend of cheesy, spicy, and savory notes that the whole family will enjoy.
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Lightly spray a 13x9-inch glass baking dish with cooking spray, then spread the uncooked noodles evenly in the dish.
Step 2
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the ground beef until it’s browned and crumbly, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess grease. Add the vegetables, undrained tomatoes, enchilada sauce, and water to the skillet, stirring everything together. Let it come to a boil, then pour the mixture over the noodles in your baking dish.
Step 3
Cover the dish tightly with foil and pop it in the oven for 15 minutes. After that, give it a good stir, sprinkle the cheese on top, cover it back up, and bake for another 10 minutes or until the noodles are tender. Finish by sprinkling on some green onions, and if you like, serve it with a dollop of sour cream.
349
people cooked this recipe
ByMichael Davis
Michael enjoys creating straightforward meals that are easy to prepare at home.
Serving Variations
Serve with a side of fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a nice touch on top. Warm tortillas can also be served alongside for a fun taco-style twist.
Storage Suggestions
Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute with other wide pasta like pappardelle or even regular egg noodles, but cooking time may vary slightly.
Do I need to thaw the frozen vegetables before cooking?
No, you can add the frozen Southwest mixed vegetables directly to the skillet without thawing.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it up to the point before baking, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.
Is it okay to use leaner ground beef or turkey instead?
Yes, leaner ground beef or ground turkey can be used, but the texture and flavor might be slightly different.
How do I know when the noodles are fully cooked?
The noodles should be tender when pierced with a fork after the final baking time; if not, bake a few minutes longer.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
What can I use instead of enchilada sauce?
You can substitute with salsa or a tomato-based chili sauce, but it may alter the flavor slightly.
Can I add extra cheese on top before baking?
Absolutely, adding more cheese will make it cheesier and can be sprinkled on before the final baking step.
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