Easy Cheesy Taco Pasta

 Prep Time10 minutes

 Cook Time20 minutes

 Total Time30 minutes

 Servings4

 Ingredients

 8 ounces uncooked pasta

 1 pound extra lean ground beef

 1 tablespoon chili powder

 1 teaspoon ground cumin

 1 teaspoon garlic powder

 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

 1/2 red bell pepper chopped

 1 (10 fluid ounce) can Ro-tel diced tomatoes & green chilies with juices

 1 cup grated cheddar cheese I used sharp cheddar

 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream

 Salt & pepper to taste

 Optional garnish: chopped scallions and cilantro

 Instructions

 Boil a salted pot of water for your pasta. Cook pasta al dente according to package directions.

 Meanwhile, prep your other ingredients and start browning the beef with the spices over medium-high heat in a skillet (approx. 8-10 minutes). Add the red pepper once the meat is broken up a bit and starts to brown.

 If you didn't use very lean ground beef, drain most of the excess fat. Add the Rotel tomatoes, cheese, and the cream. Cook for a few more minutes.

 Drain the pasta and toss with the sauce. Season with salt & pepper and garnish as desired.