Creamy Beef Taco Pasta

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 lb minced lean beef

• 1/2 diced medium sweet onion

• 1 diced small poblano pepper

• 3 minced garlic cloves

• Seasonings: 2 1/2 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp each of dried oregano and ground cumin

• 3 cups beef broth

• 8 oz canned tomato puree

• 1 cup mild salsa

• 12 oz medium-sized pasta shells

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

• 6 oz shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro leaves

• Alternative Ingredients:

• Olive oil: canola oil or vegetable oil

• Ground beef: ground turkey or plant-based meat substitute

• Sweet onion: yellow onion or red onion

• Poblano pepper: green bell pepper or jalapeno for more heat

• Garlic: garlic powder or minced jarred garlic

• Chili powder: paprika mixed with a bit of cayenne pepper

• Dried oregano: dried marjoram or Italian seasoning

• Ground cumin: ground coriander

• Beef stock: chicken stock or vegetable broth

• Tomato sauce: crushed tomatoes or passata

• Salsa: diced tomatoes with green chilies

• Pasta shells: fusilli or penne pasta

• Cheddar cheese: Monterey Jack or Colby cheese

• Heavy cream: full-fat coconut milk or cream cheese softened