Mexi-Itali Casserole

I started with Zaar Perfectly Seasoned Taco Meat, Perfectly Seasoned Taco Meat, then went on to create my own Mexican flavored baked pasta. Fresh thinly sliced green bell peppers and jalapenos make all the difference!

• Ready In: 1 hr 15 mins
• Serves: 12-15
• Yields: 1 casserole

Ingredients

• 2  lbs ground beef, use Perfectly Seasoned Taco Meat, Perfectly Seasoned Taco Meat
• 1 (28 ounce) can tomato puree
• 2 (15 ounce) cans black beans, drained
• 2  green bell peppers, thinly sliced
• 1  large  jalapeno, seeded and thinly sliced
• 1  lb pasta, cooked about 3/4 done
• 8  ounces cheddar cheese, shredded

Directions

1. Add tomato puree and black beans to double batch of Recipe #217644, Perfectly Seasoned Taco Meat. Simmer a few minutes and then remove from heat.
2. In a large baking dish (mine is about 15" x 10") layer as follows: 1/2 portion of meat bean sauce, partially cooked pasta, 1/2 portion of meat bean sauce, 1/2 portion of green and jalapeno peppers, cheese, and top with remaining green and jalapeno peppers.
3. Bake in 350 deg F oven for 40 minutes covered with foil. Remove foil and bake additional 5 minutes.