Coney Dog Pasta Bake

Who doesn’t love a classic comfort food mashup? This Coney Dog Pasta Bake is the perfect dish for those days when you’re craving a deliciously cheesy dinner that’s quick and easy to make!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of pasta
• 1 pound of ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can of chili
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup of chopped green onions
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
• 2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
• 3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onions are soft.
• 4. Add the chili to the skillet and stir until everything is well combined.
• 5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir to mix everything together.
• 6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with the shredded cheddar cheese.
• 7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• 8. Sprinkle the chopped green onions on top before serving.

Nutrition Information:

• Serving size: 1 cup
• Calories: 350
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 25g

Popular questions:

• Q: Can I use turkey instead of ground beef?

A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe for a lighter option.

• Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?

A: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack to change up the flavor.

• Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Q: Can I add additional toppings?

A: You can customize this dish with toppings like jalapenos, sour cream, or avocado for additional flavor.

Helpful tips:

• 1. For a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the chili mixture.
• 2. Try using different shapes of pasta, such as penne or rigatoni, for a fun twist on this recipe.
• 3. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness.
• 4. Make it vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with plant-based crumbles.
• 5. Experiment with different varieties of chili for a unique flavor profile.
• 6. Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• 7. Make a double batch and freeze individual portions for quick and easy weeknight dinners.
• 8. Top with crushed tortilla chips for added crunch.
• 9. Use leftover chili from another meal to simplify the preparation process.
• 10. Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences, adding more salt, pepper, or spices as needed.

Expert Secrets:

• 1. Brown the ground beef well for maximum flavor.
• 2. Allow the pasta to cool slightly before mixing with the chili to prevent the cheese from melting too quickly.
• 3. Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
• 4. Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together.
• 5. Use quality ingredients, such as homemade chili or freshly grated cheese, for the best results.
• 6. Customize the level of spiciness by adding more or less chili powder to the dish.
• 7. Consider adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms for additional texture and flavor.
• 8. Experiment with different meats, such as ground sausage or turkey, for variety.
• 9. Try topping the dish with sliced jalapenos for an extra kick of heat.
• 10. Don’t be afraid to get creative and add your own twist to this classic recipe!