Can be doubled, or made ahead and reheated. Great for potlucks.

Prepare 1 pound pasta (penne rigate or rotini) accournding to package directions – slightly undercooked preferred.

While the pasta is cooking, in a large pan, head the following and cook for 2 minutes:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 small white onion, chopped

Add and cook until lightly browed:

• 1 pound ground beef or ground chuck

Once browned, if necessary, drain the fat. Then add:

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• pinch of red pepper flakes
• 4 oz can green chiles (drained)
• 16 oz canned chopped tomatoes
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Bring to boil then reduce to simmer. Cook approximiately 20-25 minutes until the mixture has reduced.

Add pasta into sauce, mix well, then cook for about 2-3 minutes.

Finally, stir in 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese.