Spicy Mexican
A flavorful and spicy Mexican-inspired dish featuring seasoned ground beef, tender macaroni, and fresh vegetables, perfect for comforting family dinners with a creamy, spicy kick.
Ingredients
Instructions
- About 45 minutes before serving, in a 12-inch skillet, cook beef, onion, and green peppers (1/2 cup) over medium heat until meat is browned, about 10 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Drain tomato liquid into the meat mixture, cut tomatoes into bite-sized pieces, and set aside.
- Add macaroni, sugar, chili powder, salt, and 1 cup water; heat to boiling.
- Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer 25 to 30 minutes until macaroni is tender, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in sour cream; sprinkle on reserved green peppers and tomatoes.
- Cook until heated through before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika to the beef mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative. For a spicier kick, increase the chili powder or add diced jalapeños. This dish can be easily adapted by using different types of pasta, such as whole wheat or gluten-free varieties.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Spicy Mexican dish with a side of tortilla chips and guacamole for a complete meal. A fresh salad with lime vinaigrette pairs well, balancing the richness of the sour cream. For a family-style dinner, consider serving with a batch of Mexican Starburst Casserole for a delightful combination. Garnish with fresh cilantro or avocado slices for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Mexican contains roughly 135 calories, with 5g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (59% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 658mg per serving (29% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and vegetable mixture a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, then cook the macaroni and mix everything together just before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and saves time on busy days.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you're looking for a substitute for sour cream, consider using Greek yogurt for a healthier option with similar creaminess. Alternatively, you can use a dairy-free sour cream or a cashew cream for a vegan version, ensuring the dish remains rich and flavorful.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, you can reduce the amount of chili powder or use a mild variety. For more heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or diced fresh chilies. Remember to taste as you go to achieve your desired level of spiciness.
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).