Spaghetti Mexicali
A hearty Mexican-inspired baked spaghetti dish with ground beef, vegetables, and savory flavors, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and drain the spaghetti.
- Saute the onion and green pepper until tender.
- Add the ground beef and cook until just brown.
- Add the cream-style corn, tomatoes, olives, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Blend all ingredients well.
- Transfer to a covered casserole dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you don’t have olives, feel free to omit them or replace with capers. Ensure the spaghetti is al dente for the best texture after baking. This dish is reminiscent of Mexican recipes, making it versatile for different tastes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Spaghetti Mexicali with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Mexican Chef's Salad, adding a refreshing crunch. For an extra kick, top with shredded cheese or avocado slices just before serving. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, showcasing its hearty flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a lid or microwave-safe wrap. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. For a crispier texture, consider reheating in an oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti Mexicali contains roughly 438 calories, with 16g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (76% of the Daily Value), protein (33% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1723mg per serving (75% 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 for this recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Penne or fusilli would work well too. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose to ensure it doesn't overcook.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with a plant-based alternative such as lentils or textured vegetable protein. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
How can I enhance the flavor of the dish?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or chili powder to the meat mixture. Fresh herbs like cilantro can also add a nice touch. Additionally, serving with lime wedges can brighten the overall taste, making it even more delicious.
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).