Mexican Spaghetti is an exciting dish that combines the rich, hearty elements of Italian pasta with the bold, vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine. This fusion dish is easy to make, family-friendly, and perfect for weeknight dinners. Its versatility allows for variations that cater to different tastes, whether you prefer it spicy, creamy, or packed with veggies.
Ingredients and Preparation
The base of Mexican Spaghetti typically includes a few essential ingredients: ground meat (commonly beef or turkey), pasta, tomato sauce, and Mexican spices like cumin, chili powder, and oregano. What makes this dish unique is the addition of taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and cheese to create a flavor-packed sauce that perfectly complements the spaghetti.
- Ground Meat: The protein base is usually ground beef, but many recipes also suggest alternatives like turkey or even chorizo, offering different textures and flavors.
- Spices: Spices such as cumin, chili powder, and paprika bring that distinctive Mexican flair to the dish. You can adjust the amount to make it as mild or spicy as you like.
- Vegetables: Bell peppers, onions, and sometimes even black beans or corn are added for extra nutrition and texture.
- Cheese: Cheddar cheese is the go-to for this recipe, but variations like Monterey Jack or even a mix of mozzarella can be used to create a more complex, melty topping.
- Pasta: Traditional spaghetti is used, but you can substitute it with other pasta types like linguine or even whole wheat versions for a healthier twist.
Cooking Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Meat
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey along with chopped onions until the meat is no longer pink. If you’re using chorizo, it adds a smoky, spicy flavor. Drain the excess fat to keep the dish from becoming too greasy. - Step 2: Add Spices and Vegetables
Add chopped bell peppers and garlic to the meat, along with spices like cumin, chili powder, and oregano. Stir to combine and cook for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. - Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and some water or broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. You can add a touch of sour cream at this point for a creamier consistency. - Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti
While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and add the cooked pasta to the sauce. Toss everything together until the spaghetti is well-coated with the flavorful sauce. - Step 5: Add Cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese over the top of the spaghetti mixture. You can either melt the cheese directly in the pan or transfer the dish to an oven-safe baking dish and bake it for about 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Variations of Mexican Spaghetti
- Creamy Mexican Spaghetti: For a rich and creamy twist, you can stir in some sour cream or cream cheese at the end of cooking. This version adds a velvety texture that pairs well with the spicy tomato base.
- Espagueti Verde (Green Spaghetti): This variation uses a sauce made from roasted poblano peppers, tomatillos, cilantro, and cream. The sauce is blended into a smooth, green mixture and combined with the spaghetti. It’s typically baked with mozzarella cheese until the top is perfectly melted.
- Vegetarian Mexican Spaghetti: For a meatless option, you can replace the ground meat with black beans or a plant-based protein. Adding more vegetables like corn, zucchini, or mushrooms also enhances the dish’s texture and flavor.
Tips for Success
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, simply cook the spaghetti and reheat the sauce before combining them.
- Leftovers: Mexican Spaghetti keeps well in the refrigerator for about three to four days, making it perfect for meal prep. It also freezes beautifully—just store it in an airtight container and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve this dish with a simple side salad or Mexican rice for a complete meal. Top with additional taco toppings like jalapeños, sour cream, or avocado slices for extra flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Mexican Spaghetti offers a fun and delicious twist on two beloved cuisines, combining the warmth and comfort of pasta with the bold, spicy flavors of Mexican food. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a satisfying weeknight meal, this dish is sure to please. With so many variations and customization options, it’s a recipe that you can tweak to suit your preferences while still enjoying its hearty, flavorful base.
