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Mexican Spaghetti

Mexican Spaghetti
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This Mexican Spaghetti recipe is a quick, easy, and flavorful dinner that combines classic Mexican spices with hearty spaghetti noodles. Ready in under 30 minutes, it features ground meat, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and a rich tomato sauce, all topped with shredded cheese and fresh cilantro. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish offers bold smoky and spicy flavors with customizable options to suit any dietary preference.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 8 ounces spaghetti noodles
  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Garnishes

  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, queso fresco, or pepper jack)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped

Optional Variations

  • Black beans or sautéed mushrooms (for vegetarian option)
  • Jalapeño slices or hot sauce (for extra heat)
  • Diced bell peppers, corn, or zucchini (extra veggies)
  • Whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti noodles (alternative noodles)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics and Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of oil and sauté diced onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then, add ground beef or turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through.
  3. Build the Sauce: To the browned meat and onions, stir in diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 10 minutes to blend the flavors and thicken slightly.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained spaghetti directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything until the noodles are fully coated and heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Serve and Garnish: Plate the Mexican Spaghetti and sprinkle generously with shredded cheese and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy every vibrant bite.

Notes

  • Cook pasta al dente to prevent mushy noodles when mixed with the sauce.
  • Use fresh chili powder and cumin to amplify authentic flavors.
  • Simmer sauce gently to keep it thick and flavorful; avoid boiling vigorously.
  • Toss pasta well with sauce to ensure every strand is coated.
  • Adjust heat by adding jalapeños or hot sauce for your desired spice level.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican Spaghetti, quick dinner, easy recipe, Mexican pasta, weeknight meal, spicy pasta, family friendly

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