This Mexican Pasta is a fiesta in a bowl! With colorful veggies, tasty spices, and a hint of crema, it’s a fun twist on traditional pasta. Quick, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying!
Whenever I make this, my kitchen feels like a party! It’s great for busy nights when you want comfort food that’s also a bit exciting. Serve it with cheese on top for extra yum! 🌶️🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using campanelle for its fun shape, but you can easily swap it for bow-tie or even penne. Just make sure it’s a type that holds sauce well.
Ground Beef: You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even plant-based crumbles if you prefer a vegetarian twist. Both work great and still bring plenty of flavor!
Onion: Yellow onions are my go-to for their sweetness. However, you can use white or even shallots if that’s what you have. They all add a nice base flavor!
Spices: If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika will do, but the smoky flavor really elevates the dish. You can also add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat!
Fresh Cilantro: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, chopped green onions or parsley make great alternatives for garnish.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Pasta?
Cooking pasta correctly is essential for the best texture! Follow these tips to get it just right:
- Use plenty of water to give your pasta room to cook evenly.
- Salt the water generously once it comes to a boil; this is your only chance to season the pasta itself.
- Check the cooking time on the package and taste a piece a minute or two early for “al dente,” which means it’s tender but still has a slight bite.
Once it’s done, remember to drain it right away to prevent overcooking. A quick rinse isn’t needed here since you want the starch to help the sauce cling to the pasta!
How to Make Mexican Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces pasta (campanelle or bow-tie work great)
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes on prep and 20 minutes cooking. It’s a quick and tasty option for busy weekdays!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This generally takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onions become soft and fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for your sauce!
3. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Keep stirring until it’s well-browned and no longer pink, which should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s a lot of fat after cooking, feel free to drain some off.
4. Add the Veggies:
Now, stir in the diced red bell pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes, just until it starts to soften. This adds a nice sweetness and crunch to your sauce.
5. Build the Sauce:
Pour in the tomato sauce along with the beef broth or water. Then, sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until combined and bring it to a simmer.
6. Let It Thicken:
Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, letting all those lovely flavors combine and the sauce thicken a bit. This is the time when your kitchen will start smelling amazing!
7. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
Finally, add the cooked pasta right into the skillet with the meat sauce. Toss everything together so that the pasta is nicely coated with the sauce. Cook for an extra minute or two just to combine everything well.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Serve your delicious Mexican pasta warm, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful dish with family and friends!
This Mexican Pasta is a fun twist on a classic dish, full of vibrant flavors and perfect for any night of the week!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if using a different meat to ensure it’s cooked through.
How Can I Make It Spicier?
If you love heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. Topping it with sliced jalapeños or hot sauce before serving can also add a nice kick!
Can I Make This Pasta Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve, then mix it with the sauce for the best texture. You can also freeze the sauce for up to a month!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Mexican Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.
