Tex-Mex-Style Mac and Cheese in a Skillet

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp. l. olive oil
• 3 tbsp. chili powder
• 1 tbsp. l. ground cumin
• 450 g of ground beef
• 1 teaspoon coarse salt
• 2 tbsp. marinara sauce
• 1 package (220 g) of microwave-safe pasta (such as rotini, hors d'oeuvres, or penne)
• 2 cups of grated Mexican cheese mix
• 2 jalapeños, thinly sliced, optional
• Greek yogurt or sour cream and chopped green onions, for serving

Preparation:

1. Preheat oven or grill to 190°C.
2. Pour olive oil into a large cast-iron skillet, add chili powder and cumin, and heat over medium heat. Stir until the spices are fragrant, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef, salt, and a few grinds of black pepper and cook, breaking up any clumps, until browned and cooked through, 8-10 minutes. Add the marinara sauce and toss. Add the pasta straight from the bag and toss.
4. Level the pan and sprinkle the cheese on top, then arrange the jalapeño rings over the entire surface.
5. Bake in the oven or on the grill, covered, until the cheese is melted and golden brown around the edges, 10-15 minutes. Top with Greek yogurt and sprinkle with green onions. Serve warm.