I found this recipe years ago in one of those little cooking magazines at the grocery store checkout. I'm pretty sure I was at Costco buying diapers, so that's how long I've been making this. It's still a favorite. It's one of those one skillet wonders and is perfect for when you're in a hurry and need something quick.

Ingredients

1 lb lean hamburger meat
2 1/3 cups rotini pasta, uncooked
1 tsp chili powder
2 1/4 cups hot water
1 can (14 oz) zesty chili style diced tomatoes
2 cups Colby Jack cheese, grated

Instructions

In a large skillet with a lid, brown the hamburger meat over medium heat. Season with salt and pepper. Drain any excess grease.

Stir in uncooked pasta, chili powder, water and tomatoes. Heat to boiling, stirring frequently. Reduce to medium-low heat; cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.

Remove from heat. Stir in cheese until melted.

Ideas

Pasta can be tricky to measure, so if you find that the pasta is still a little al dente, once the water has reduece, you can always add a little bit more water, stir, and cover for a couple more minutes.

Any type of cheese works in this recipe.

You can also substitute different diced tomatoes, I just prefer the extra flavor from the zesty chili style tomatoes.