Mexican Vermicelli
A flavorful Mexican-inspired dish featuring tender vermicelli pasta cooked with ground beef and spicy tomatoes, perfect for a hearty weeknight meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Break the vermicelli pasta into 1-inch pieces and boil in salted water until just tender.
- Drain the pasta, pouring off all but 1/4 of the water.
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat.
- Stir the browned meat into the cooked pasta.
- Add the can of tomatoes with chilies to the skillet.
- Heat through and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with black beans or lentils. You can also add chopped bell peppers or corn for extra flavor and texture. Ensure to cook the vermicelli just until al dente, as it will continue to absorb moisture from the sauce. If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding some diced jalapeños or using a hotter variety of tomatoes with chilies.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Mexican Vermicelli with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad to balance the flavors. For an added kick, top with shredded cheese or avocado slices. This dish pairs beautifully with Bean And Beef Enchiladas or Easy Bean Burrito Bake for a complete Mexican-inspired meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out and heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave in a covered dish, stirring halfway through until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Vermicelli contains roughly 332 calories, with 21g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (61% of the Daily Value) and protein (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. At about 332 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 other types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, while vermicelli is traditional, you can substitute with other pasta types like angel hair or even small shells. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta used to achieve the desired tenderness.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the spice level, consider using hot salsa or adding diced jalapeños when mixing in the tomatoes. You could also sprinkle some cayenne pepper or chili flakes into the meat as it browns for an extra kick.
What can I serve with Mexican Vermicelli?
This dish is versatile and can be served alongside a variety of sides. A simple green salad or tortilla chips with salsa complement it well. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with Mexicali Macaroni for a delightful mix of flavors.
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).