This Mexican Pasta is a fun twist on traditional spaghetti, bursting with flavors like zesty tomatoes, spicy peppers, and savory cheese. It’s quick to make and super tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rigatoni: I love using rigatoni because its shape holds onto the sauce nicely. If you can’t find it, other short pasta like penne or fusilli will work too!
Ground Beef: Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives if you’re looking for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or mushrooms for a meaty texture without the meat.
Cherry Tomatoes: They add a punch of sweetness. If they’re out of season, you can use canned diced tomatoes instead, which will work perfectly in this dish.
Spices: The chili powder and smoked paprika give a delicious flavor. If you prefer milder spices, you can reduce their amounts or use paprika only for a smokier taste without the heat.
Cheese: Monterey Jack is creamy, but you can also use cheddar or a vegan cheese if you’re avoiding dairy. Mixing multiple cheeses can enhance the flavor!
How Do I Get My Pasta Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta might seem straightforward, but it’s important to get it just right. Start with a large pot of boiling, salted water—this helps season the pasta as it cooks.
- Add the pasta and stir it right away to prevent it from sticking.
- Follow the package instructions for cooking time, but taste it a minute or two before it’s done. You want it al dente, which means slightly firm when bitten.
- Once done, drain the pasta in a colander. Do not rinse it, as this washes away the starch that helps the sauce cling!
By following these tips, your pasta will be perfectly cooked and ready to soak up all the delicious flavors of your Mexican Pasta!
How to Make Delicious Mexican Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) rigatoni or other short pasta
- For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup beef or chicken broth (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Cheese Topping:
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Mexican Pasta will take about 10 minutes for preparation and around 15 minutes for cooking, totaling about 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick yet flavorful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add in the rigatoni (or your choice of short pasta) and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Start the Meat Sauce:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
3. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Stir and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through—about 6-8 minutes.
4. Add Garlic:
Once the beef is browned, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute until it’s fragrant.
5. Mix in the Vegetables and Spices:
Next, add in the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced black olives, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and oregano. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.
6. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the tomato sauce and optional beef or chicken broth. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together. This is a great moment to taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Combine with Pasta:
Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the meat sauce until everything is well-coated.
8. Add the Cheese:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Allow it to melt slightly, making for a delicious cheesy topping.
9. Serve and Garnish:
Dish up the Mexican Pasta into bowls or plates, and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for a bright finish.
Enjoy your delicious Mexican Pasta with its bold spices, fresh tomatoes, and cheesy finish!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are excellent alternatives for a lighter dish. For a vegetarian version, consider substituting with lentils, black beans, or diced mushrooms for a hearty texture.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Yes! To add extra heat, consider including diced jalapeños or using hot chili powder instead of mild. You can also top the pasta with sliced fresh chilies just before serving.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the meat sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just cook the pasta fresh on the day you plan to serve it to keep everything vibrant and delicious.
