Mexican Lunch(Makes 4 To 5 Servings)
A flavorful and hearty Mexican-inspired dish combining sausage, vegetables, and pasta in a spiced tomato and buttermilk sauce, perfect for comforting family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown sausage, chopped onions, and chopped green peppers in a large skillet.
- Add canned tomatoes, buttermilk, uncooked macaroni, chili powder, salt, and sugar.
- Cover and cook until steaming.
- Lower heat to simmer and cook for 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using spicy sausage or mixing in some diced jalapeños. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. For a vegetarian option, use plant-based sausage and omit the meat. This dish can be easily adapted with ingredients from other Mexican recipes, like adding black beans or corn.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a side of warm tortillas or a fresh green salad. It pairs beautifully with Tex-Mex Muffins for a satisfying meal. You can also top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for added flavor. This meal is perfect for lunch or dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. Avoid overheating to maintain the texture of the macaroni.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Lunch(Makes 4 To 5 Servings) contains roughly 446 calories, with 23g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (274% of the Daily Value), protein (46% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1386mg per serving (60% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of macaroni?
Yes, you can substitute macaroni with other short pasta shapes like penne or rotini. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type, as some may require more or less time to cook thoroughly.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! To increase the heat, you can add extra chili powder or mix in some diced jalapeños or serrano peppers. Additionally, serving with a side of spicy salsa can enhance the overall flavor and heat of the dish.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sausage and vegetable mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply add the remaining ingredients and proceed with cooking. This makes it a convenient option for busy days or gatherings.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).