Originally posted Nov 2, 2010 on old blog
This is a super easy dish inspired by a very similar one that can be ordered for home-delivery from Pizza Hut. Of course I like to think mine is better. 8)
Ingredients:
1/2 tsp. Salt
1 tbsp. chili powder
1 tbsp. fresh ground pepper
1 tsp. cumin
1 tbsp. garlic powder
2 jars of Prego
2 – 3 cups of shredded cheese
2 large onions, chopped (I used 1 HUGE Texas sweet onion)
2 lbs lean ground beef (we like the ground sirloin from Albertsons)
1 box Rotini pasta
Directions:
Fill a suitably large pan 3/4 full of water, add salt and bring to a rolling boil. Add box of Rotini and adjust heat to simmer for about 12 minutes. While Rotini is cooking off, brown the ground beef/sirloin in a large, fairly deep skillet. (Break up the meat while browning). I like to add the spices to the meat when it is about 3/4ths done, followed by the chopped/diced onion, then continue to sauté until they are tender, about 5 minutes.
Drain and shock Rotini with cold water, then reintroduce into the same big pan with 1 jar of Prego and stir gently but well, over low heat, to cover all of the pasta. When the beef & onions are done add the other jar of Prego to the meat and simmer/stir for about 5 more minutes, (or whenever you are about ready to mix and serve – time is not critical here – hunger IS). During that time, I lke to stir most of the shredded cheese into the pasta and let it melt. Finally, pour the meat mixture in with the Rotini and gently mix well for even distribution – top with the rest of the shredded cheese and cover after removing from heat.
This recipe will easily serve 8 with a few leftovers for later. Serve in bowls with fresh bread and your favorite side dish(es). Something simple like a bowl of cole slaw is great. I do love a splash or six of Tapatio hot sauce to kick things up a notch on my own bowl of goodness. 😉
Of course, this dish can be prepared on the stove top OR outdoors on a grill with suitable cast iron cooking gear.