This Mexican Pasta is a fun twist on your regular pasta! Filled with vibrant flavors from spices, peppers, and beans, it’s colorful and hearty.
You’ll love how quick it comes together. It’s like a fiesta in a bowl, and trust me, leftovers make for a great lunch the next day! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Short Pasta: I love using ditalini or rigatoni because they hold the sauce well. If you don’t have those, any short pasta like penne or fusilli works, too!
Ground Beef: Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. You can even use plant-based meat if you want a vegetarian dish!
Taco Seasoning: If you prefer homemade, simply mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. It’s fun to customize the level of spiciness!
Diced Tomatoes: Fire-roasted diced tomatoes add a nice smoky flavor. If you can’t find that, regular canned tomatoes will work; just add a bit of smoked paprika for a similar taste.
Beans: Black beans are a staple, but you can swap them for pinto or kidney beans. They all add protein and fiber!
How Do I Cook the Pasta Perfectly?
Cooking pasta might seem simple, but timing and technique matter. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Use a large pot with plenty of water to avoid sticking.
- Salt the water generously—it should taste like the ocean. This adds flavor to the pasta.
- Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the pasta. Stir it occasionally as it cooks.
- Check for doneness about a minute before the package instructions indicate. You want it ‘al dente’—which means firm to the bite!
- When ready, drain it quickly, but don’t rinse. Rinsing washes away the starch that helps sauces cling!
Following these steps will give you the best pasta for your Mexican Pasta dish! Enjoy! 🍝
How to Make Mexican Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Dish:
- 12 oz (340 g) short pasta (such as ditalini or rigatoni)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (about 1 oz) taco seasoning mix
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mexican Pasta dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. In just half an hour, you’ll have a flavorful meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add your short pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes around 9 to 11 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds—just enough time for it to become fragrant!
3. Brown the Meat:
Next, add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart and cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally!
4. Season and Add Ingredients:
Now stir in the taco seasoning mix until the meat is well coated. Then, add the undrained diced tomatoes, drained black beans, corn, and the beef broth (or water). Give everything a good stir to combine all the flavors.
5. Simmer the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and let the mixture simmer for about 5-10 minutes. This will allow all those delicious flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken a bit.
6. Combine with Pasta:
Now, it’s time to add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together gently until the pasta is completely coated in the sauce. It’s looking good already, right?
7. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the pasta mix. Cover the skillet for a few minutes, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully over the dish. Delicious! 😋
8. Serve and Garnish:
Once the cheese has melted, remove the lid and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for that extra zing. Serve warm and optionally add a dollop of sour cream or slices of avocado for a creamy touch!
Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Mexican Pasta—it’s a perfect blend of comfort and excitement for your taste buds!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a healthy substitute that adds a nutty flavor to the dish. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as whole wheat pasta may take a little longer to cook than regular pasta.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you want to amp up the heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when you stir in the taco seasoning. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy a bit of extra spice!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Definitely! You can replace the ground meat with a plant-based alternative or use more beans, such as pinto or chickpeas. You can also add in extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for additional nutrients and flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove or microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of broth can help bring back the dish’s creaminess!
