Print

Mexican Spaghetti

Mexican Spaghetti
Print Recipe

Mexican Spaghetti is a quick and satisfying one-pot meal that blends traditional Italian pasta with vibrant Mexican flavors. Featuring ground beef or turkey, fresh vegetables, bold spices, and melty cheese, this dish delivers comfort and excitement in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights and adaptable for various dietary preferences, it’s a family-friendly recipe that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 8 ounces spaghetti noodles, cooked al dente
  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey (or plant-based alternative)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

Seasonings and Spices

  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Toppings and Garnishes

  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, pepper jack, or queso fresco)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges (for squeezing)
  • Optional: sliced avocado and sour cream

Instructions

  1. Cook the Spaghetti: Begin by boiling the spaghetti in salted water until just al dente, following package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a small amount of pasta water for later use if needed.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat a bit of oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook until softened and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  3. Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6 to 8 minutes.
  4. Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in diced tomatoes, black beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the sauce and toss to coat every strand. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
  6. Finish with Cheese and Freshness: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle shredded cheese over the top to melt slightly. Garnish with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh spices for the best flavor.
  • Reserve some pasta water to help loosen the sauce if needed.
  • Do not overcook the spaghetti; slightly undercook as it will continue cooking when mixed with sauce.
  • Sauté garlic and onions thoroughly before adding meat for deeper flavor.
  • Adjust spice level by adding jalapeños or hot sauce to taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican Spaghetti, quick dinner, one pot meal, ground beef recipe, family-friendly, Mexican pasta

Find it online: https://cherrycooks.com/mexican-spaghetti/