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- 8 oz (225 g) penne pasta - 1 lb (450 g) ground beef - 1 medium onion, diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 red bell pepper, diced - 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained - 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies - 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen) - 2 teaspoons chili powder - 1 teaspoon cumin - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

- Cowboy Pasta

Looking for a quick and flavorful dinner? Cowboy Pasta is the perfect one-pan meal that combines ground beef, pasta, and vibrant veggies into a comforting dish your family will love! In just 30 minutes, you'll whip up a delicious feast packed with bold flavors. Discover how to make this simple, customizable recipe today. Click through to explore step-by-step instructions and tips for making your perfect Cowboy Pasta!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (225 g) penne pasta

1 lb (450 g) ground beef

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained

1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies

1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

2 teaspoons chili powder

1 teaspoon cumin

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook 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 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

      Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent.

        Add Bell Pepper and Spices: Stir in the diced red bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the bell pepper softens.

          Combine the Ingredients: Mix in the black beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), corn, and cooked penne pasta. Stir everything thoroughly and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through and combine flavors.

            Cheese It Up: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt.

              Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley before serving.

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4