Mexican Pasta Casserole

5.00 (9)
⏱ 45 mins 🍽 4 serving(s) 🌶 italian 🏷 Meat

This satisfying meat casserole combines lean ground beef with a zesty tomato and black bean sauce, layered with whole wheat pasta and fat free cheeses. It is designed to fit specific dietary plans and can be prepared ahead of time or assembled quickly for a convenient dinner. The dish bakes in the oven until the cheese topping is melted and golden. It serves four people and takes approximately 45 minutes from start to finish.

Mexican Pasta Casserole

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup onion
  • 1 (28 ounce) can chopped tomatoes with juice
  • 1 (1 1/4 ounce) package taco seasoning
  • 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained
  • 8 ounces 93% lean ground beef
  • 3 cups whole wheat penne or 3 cups whole wheat ziti (6 oz. dried)
  • 1 cup fat-free ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded fat-free cheddar cheese

Method

  1. Heat your oven to 425*.
  2. Coat a 7x11 baking dish with cooking spray.
  3. Combine the onions, tomatoes with their juice, taco seasoning and drained black beans.
  4. A food processor can be used for a smoother texture.
  5. Pour one cup of this tomato blend over the base of the prepared dish.
  6. Arrange the cooked pasta on top.
  7. Place spoonfuls of ricotta cheese over the pasta, then smooth it out.
  8. Mix the ground beef into the rest of the tomato mixture.
  9. Layer this beef and sauce mixture over the ricotta.
  10. Finish by scattering the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
  11. Place in the oven to bake for 25-30 minute.

Nutrition (per serving)

Sodium1043800 mg

Recipe details

CategoryMeat
Cuisineitalian
AuthorKCShell