Indulge in a delightful twist on classic spaghetti with this Mexican spaghetti recipe. Bursting with flavors from spices, tomatoes, and cheese, this dish offers a unique culinary experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick family meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Get ready to satisfy your taste buds with a dish that combines the best of Italian and Mexican cuisines!
Ingredients
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb ground beef or turkey
– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately:
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 45g
– Fat: 15g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
2. In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat.
3. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft.
4. Add ground beef or turkey to the skillet, cooking until browned.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes, green chilies, chili powder, and cumin.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes to blend flavors.
8. Combine the cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce in the skillet.
9. Stir well to coat the spaghetti evenly.
10. Top with shredded cheese and let it melt before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground beef with ground chicken or a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option. Additionally, use whole grain spaghetti for a healthier choice or gluten-free pasta for dietary restrictions.
Serving and Pairings
This Mexican spaghetti pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad. It also goes well with sour cream and avocado for added creaminess and flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover Mexican spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until heated through or warm on the stovetop. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the spaghetti; it should be al dente.
– Don’t skip sautéing the onion and garlic; it adds depth of flavor.
– Use fresh spices for better taste.
– Ensure to season the meat properly; taste as you go.
– Let the sauce simmer long enough for flavors to meld.
– Don’t skip garnishing; fresh cilantro enhances the dish.
– Avoid using too much liquid; it should be a thick sauce.
Helpful Tips
– Use high-quality canned tomatoes for richer flavor.
– For extra heat, add chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture.
– Adjust spices according to your taste preference.
– Serve immediately for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the meat with a plant-based alternative or using extra beans and vegetables instead.
What can I use instead of spaghetti?
You can use any pasta of your choice, such as penne, fusilli, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. The green chilies add mild heat, but you can increase it with more spices or jalapeños.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it separately. Just cook the spaghetti fresh before serving.
What toppings work best?
Top your Mexican spaghetti with shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, or fresh cilantro for added flavor.
Conclusion
Mexican spaghetti is a delightful fusion dish that combines the comforting elements of classic pasta with zesty Mexican flavors. Easy to prepare and customizable, it’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this hearty meal with family and friends—your taste buds will thank you!
Mexican Spaghetti
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 can 15 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 can 4 oz diced green chilies
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or Mexican blend
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft.
- Add ground beef or turkey to the skillet, cooking until browned.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, green chilies, chili powder, and cumin.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes to blend flavors.
- Combine the cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce in the skillet.
- Stir well to coat the spaghetti evenly.
- Top with shredded cheese and let it melt before serving.
Nutrition
