Mexican Pasta is a fun twist on traditional pasta that packs a flavorful punch. With zesty spices, fresh veggies, and a hint of heat, it’s a dish that brightens up your dinner table!
I love how quick and easy it is to make! Just toss cooked pasta with all those vibrant ingredients and you’re good to go. Perfect for those busy weeknights! 🌶️🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using rigatoni, as it holds onto the sauce well. You can easily swap it for penne or fusilli if you prefer a different shape. Gluten-free pasta works well too!
Ground Beef: I love using ground beef for its rich flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try ground turkey or chicken. If you want a meatless dish, you could use lentils or black beans as a protein substitute.
Tomato Sauce: Canned tomato sauce and tomato paste create a perfect base. If you’re short on time, a jar of your favorite pasta sauce could be a quick substitute. For a fresh taste, consider using diced fresh tomatoes instead of canned.
Spices: The chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika give this dish a punch. Feel free to adjust to your taste! If you’re sensitive to spice, you can reduce the chili powder or skip the cayenne pepper.
How Do I Get the Beef Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking ground beef just right is crucial for flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it:
- First, make sure your skillet is hot before adding the beef. This helps sear the meat.
- Break the beef into small chunks with a spoon or spatula as it cooks.
- Cook until the beef is browned all over, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat afterward.
- Taste before seasoning! This ensures you’re adding the right amount of spices for your palate.
With these tips, you’ll create a delicious and satisfying Mexican Pasta that everyone will love!
How to Make Mexican Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (rigatoni or similar shape)
For The Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
For The Sauce:
- 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for topping)
- Diced fresh tomatoes (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes around 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for a busy weeknight! Just 10 minutes to cook the pasta and about 20 minutes to whip up the sauce and combine everything. Dinner will be ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and cook them until they’re softened, around 3-4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
3. Brown the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s a lot of fat, you can drain the excess before moving on to the next step.
4. Add the Spices:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if you want some heat), and salt and pepper. Mix well to coat the beef with all those delicious spices.
5. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, and beef broth. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes so the flavors can meld together and the sauce thickens a bit.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Once the sauce is ready, add the drained pasta directly into the skillet. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the meaty sauce. Let it heat through for just a couple of minutes.
7. Add the Cheesy Goodness:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the pasta and stir until it’s melted and creamy. The cheese adds a wonderful richness to the dish!
8. Serve It Up:
Dish out the Mexican pasta while it’s hot! Garnish each serving with fresh chopped cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and diced fresh tomatoes, if you like.
This dish is a fun twist on pasta, packed with vibrant flavors and textures. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great as a lighter alternative. Just be sure to adjust cooking times slightly, as they may cook faster than beef.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with black beans, lentils, or a meat substitute like tofu or tempeh. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for added flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until hot throughout.
What Can I Serve with Mexican Pasta?
This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or some garlic bread. For a heartier meal, serve it with some Mexican-style corn or avocado slices on the side!