Tex-Mex Spaghetti(4 Servings)
A flavorful Tex-Mex spaghetti dish combining spicy ground beef, tomatoes, and cheese, perfect for a hearty, family-friendly meal with bold spices and comforting pasta.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic in a skillet until beef is browned and onion is tender.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Add canned tomatoes with juice, tomato sauce, vinegar, chili powder, cumin, and cinnamon to the skillet.
- Simmer the mixture for 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- While the sauce simmers, cook spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions.
- Drain the cooked spaghetti.
- Serve the spaghetti topped with the hot sauce and sprinkled with grated Cheddar cheese.
- Serve with a side salad and garlic bread if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. You can also swap in fresh tomatoes if you have them on hand. Adjust the chili powder to suit your spice preference, and adding a pinch of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes. For a twist, try incorporating black beans or corn for a heartier dish that complements Tex-Mex flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Tex-Mex spaghetti with a fresh side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. This dish pairs wonderfully with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top. For an extra kick, consider serving alongside some spicy Rolled Beef Tacos. You can also sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro for added freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Tex-Mex spaghetti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. It can also be microwaved in a covered dish, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tex-Mex Spaghetti(4 Servings) contains roughly 347 calories, with 17g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (57% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), and calcium (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 907mg per serving (39% 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 recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make Tex-Mex spaghetti vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or use chopped mushrooms and lentils for a hearty texture. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to enhance the dish while keeping it flavorful.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the spice level, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. You can also use a spicier chili powder or add crushed red pepper flakes to taste. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings gradually to avoid overpowering the dish.
Can I freeze leftover Tex-Mex spaghetti?
Yes, you can freeze Tex-Mex spaghetti! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for about 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
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).