Description
If you’re looking to spice up your pasta nights, Mexican Spaghetti is the perfect dish! This fusion recipe combines the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine—bold spices, tomatoes, and hearty ground beef—with the comforting appeal of spaghetti. The result is a dish that’s packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for a family meal. Whether you enjoy it with a side of tortilla chips, fresh guacamole, or a crisp salad, this dish will bring excitement to your dinner table.
Ingredients
For the Spaghetti and Sauce:
- 12 ounces spaghetti (or gluten-free pasta if preferred)
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- ½ cup salsa (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup corn kernels (optional)
- ½ cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
For Garnish:
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 avocado, sliced (optional)
- ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Instructions
-
Cook the Spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
-
Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until soft (about 3 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
-
Brown the Meat:
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
-
Season and Simmer:
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and salsa. Stir well.
- If using, add corn and black beans for extra texture and flavor.
- Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
-
Combine the Spaghetti and Sauce:
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Let it cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
-
Top with Cheese and Serve:
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the spaghetti and let it melt.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and a dollop of sour cream.
- Serve with a lime wedge on the side for extra zest!
Notes
- Make It Spicier: Add chopped jalapeños or extra hot salsa for a spicy kick!
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for mushrooms or extra black beans.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free spaghetti or zucchini noodles.
- Make-Ahead Tip: The sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat and toss with fresh pasta when ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 20 min
- Category: lunch
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Serves 4-6 people
- Calories: 450
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 25g