Chipotle Mac & Cheese

By carvalhohm

Ingredients

• 1 package (16 ounces) spiral pasta
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 2 large onions, chopped
• 2 large green peppers, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (10-3/4 ounces) condensed cheddar cheese soup, undiluted
• 1/2 cup 2% milk
• 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, chopped
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2 cups (8 ounces) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro, optional

Details

Servings 8
Adapted from tasteofhome.com

Preparation

Step 1

Cook pasta according to package directions to al dente. Meanwhile, in a Dutch oven, cook the beef, onions, green peppers and garlic over medium heat until meat is no longer pink. Drain.

Stir in the tomatoes, soup, milk, chipotle pepper and seasonings. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until thickened.

Drain pasta; stir into meat mixture. Divide between two greased 8-in. square baking dishes; sprinkle with cheese and cilantro if desired.

Cover and freeze one casserole for up to 3 months. Cover and bake the remaining casserole at 350° for 20 minutes. Uncover; bake 8-10 minutes longer or until bubbly and cheese is melted.

To use frozen casserole: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Cover and bake at 350° for 60 minutes. Uncover; bake 8-10 minutes longer or until bubbly and cheese is melted.