Southwestern Pasta Gratin

(from saymyname’s recipe box)

Serves 4 people

Categories: Casserole, Main Dish, Pasta, Tex-Mex, Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves , minced
  • 1 jalapeno pepper , seeded and minced
  • 1 1/2 cups cooked pinto beans , drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder (to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 1/2 cups bottled picante sauce
  • 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • salt
  • fresh ground black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or 1 cup soy cheddar cheese

Directions

  1. Cook macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water, stirring occasionally, until it is al dente, about 8 minutes.

  2. When pasta is cooked, drain and set aside.

  3. Preheat oven to 350°; lightly oil a 2 1/2-quart baking dish.

  4. Heat the oil in a large skillet over med-low heat, add in the garlic and jalapeno; cook until softened, about 1 minute.

  5. Add in the beans, chili powder, and oregano.

  6. Stir in the picante sauce and tomatoes; mix well.

  7. Simmer for 5 minutes.

  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  9. In a big bowl, combine the macaroni with the bean-tomato mixture and transfer to the prepared dish.

  10. Top with the cheese.

  11. Cover and bake for 25 minutes.

  12. Uncover and continue baking 5-10 minutes longer or until the top is lightly browned.

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