Tex-Mexaroni
A hearty Tex-Mex pasta dish combining ground meat, macaroni, beans, and tomatoes with bold chili and cumin flavors, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown and drain the meat.
- Mix all ingredients except cheese in a large pot.
- Add enough water to cover the macaroni.
- Simmer for 20 to 30 minutes or until the macaroni is soft.
- Top with grated Cheddar cheese before serving if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef or turkey with black beans or lentils. You can also add bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a can of cream of mushroom soup or some sour cream. Adjust the chili powder according to your spice preference, as some may find a level of heat similar to Chili (Power Level: High, 100%) enjoyable.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Tex-Mexaroni with a side of tortilla chips and salsa for a complete meal. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or guacamole. For a fun twist, serve it alongside a Frito Plate for added crunch. This dish also makes an excellent potluck option, satisfying both kids and adults alike.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to avoid dryness and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of water or broth to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tex-Mexaroni contains roughly 883 calories, with 41g protein, 111g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (111% of the Daily Value), and protein (81% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1842mg per serving (80% 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 gluten-free macaroni in this recipe?
Yes, you can easily substitute regular macaroni with gluten-free macaroni. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as gluten-free pasta may cook differently.
What can I add to make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce. You can also use spicier canned tomatoes or add more chili powder than the recipe suggests for a bolder flavor.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the simmering stage, then refrigerate it overnight. When ready to serve, simply reheat on the stovetop or microwave until hot. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or for busy weeknights.
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).