Mexican Pasta is a fun twist on traditional pasta with colorful veggies like bell peppers, onions, and spices. Think of it as a party on your plate!
It’s so easy to make, and I love adding some cheese on top for extra yumminess. Perfect for a quick dinner that will impress your family or friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rigatoni: I love rigatoni for its chunky shape that holds onto the sauce well. You can swap it with any pasta you like, such as penne or fusilli for a different texture.
Ground Beef: Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef if you’re looking for a lighter option. For a vegetarian twist, try using mushrooms or lentils instead!
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes are super convenient, but fresh tomatoes can also work beautifully in this recipe. If you prefer a sweeter taste, use cherry or grape tomatoes.
Spices: If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works fine. For more heat, feel free to increase the cayenne pepper or add some jalapeños!
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking pasta to the right texture is key in this recipe. Follow these steps to get it just right:
- Start with a large pot of salted water; this helps season the pasta as it cooks.
- Check the package instructions for cooking time but start testing a minute or two earlier. You want it ‘al dente,’ meaning it should be firm to the bite.
- Once cooked, drain it immediately but don’t rinse; rinsing washes away the starch that helps sauce cling to the pasta.
By following these tips, your Mexican Pasta will shine with vibrant flavors and perfect texture! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Mexican Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz rigatoni or your preferred pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep ingredients and about 20 minutes to cook everything perfectly. A quick and tasty meal that’s great for any night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—this means it should still be firm when you bite it. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring gently until it’s fragrant.
3. Browning the Meat:
Next, add the 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Let it brown evenly for about 6-8 minutes. Remember to season it with salt and pepper!
4. Adding Spices and Sauce:
Once the beef is cooked through, stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and if you like some heat, the cayenne pepper. Mix well to coat the meat in all those flavorful spices. Then pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and sliced black olives. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens up a bit.
5. Combining Everything:
Toss the cooked rigatoni into the skillet with the meat sauce. Stir well to ensure all the pasta is coated with the delicious sauce and that every bite gets all those wonderful flavors!
6. Serving:
It’s time to serve! Scoop the Mexican Pasta onto plates or into bowls. Finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley to add a pop of color and fresh taste. Enjoy your meal!
This Mexican Pasta is a delightful mix of comfort food and bold flavors, making it an easy and delicious choice for any dinner. Enjoy every yummy bite!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives if you’re looking for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, you can substitute with black beans or lentils for added protein and fiber.
What Can I Substitute for Rigatoni?
If you don’t have rigatoni, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Mexican Pasta?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! To increase the heat, you can add extra cayenne pepper, or include diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the meat. Adjust according to your spice preference!