ONE-POT CHEESY TACO PASTA

Ingredients

1. 1 pound ground beef
2. 1/2 teaspoon salt
3. Pinch of black pepper
4. 1 ounce packet taco seasoning or about 3 1/2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning
5. 2 cups water
6. 1 cup jarred mild salsa
7. 8 ounces uncooked rotini pasta
8. 1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican-style cheese
9. Optional toppings - chopped tomatoes avocado, crushed tortilla chips, chopped cilantro

Instructions

1. Preheat a large deep skillet over medium heat.
2. Add ground beef and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook, stirring occasionally until cooked thoroughly.
4. Drain grease.
5. Stir taco seasoning into ground beef then stir in water, salsa and pasta noodles.
6. Bring mixture to a boil.
7. Stir, cover and reduce heat to a simmer.
8. Cook for about 15 minutes until pasta is tender.
9. Turn off heat and stir in cheese.
10. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
11. Serve with optional toppings if desired.

Recipe Notes
A store bought jar salsa such is Pace, Ortega or similar brand (even generic) like that is recommended.