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When the craving for comfort food strikes, few dishes can compete with the rich, indulgent flavors of cheesy pasta. Enter the Cheesy Ground Beef Nacho Pasta Bake, a delightful fusion that brilliantly combines the beloved elements of nachos and pasta into a single, hearty meal. This recipe not only promises a satisfying experience for your taste buds but also offers the convenience of a one-dish meal that simplifies weeknight cooking, making it a go-to choice for busy families.

Cheesy Ground Beef Nacho Pasta Bake

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Ground Beef Nacho Pasta Bake! This one-dish meal combines the rich flavors of ground beef, gooey cheese, and savory nacho cheese soup with elbow macaroni for a quick and satisfying dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe invites customization with optional ingredients like jalapeños and tortilla chips. Discover how to create a dish that’s not only easy to make but also bursts with flavor and nostalgia. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) ground beef

8 oz (225g) elbow macaroni

1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies

1 can (12 oz) nacho cheese soup

1 cup (240ml) beef broth

1 cup (120g) shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup (120g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese

1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning

1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream

1/4 cup (60ml) sliced jalapeños (optional)

1/2 cup (60g) crushed tortilla chips

Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.

        Add Seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes (with juices), nacho cheese soup, beef broth, and sour cream. Mix well and let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

          Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and the beef mixture. Stir in half of both cheeses (cheddar and Monterey Jack) and add jalapeños if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

            Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch (3L) baking dish. Smooth it out evenly.

              Top with Cheese and Chips: Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and then add the crushed tortilla chips evenly over the cheese layer.

                Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

                  Garnish: Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

                    Serve: Scoop servings onto plates, enjoy the cheesy goodness and watch everyone come back for seconds!

                      Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6-8