Texas Red
Texas Red is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring seasoned ground beef simmered with tomatoes and spices. Its smoky, mildly spicy profile makes it perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings, served over pasta for a satisfying and versatile meal with a touch of Southern flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet.
- Add the tomatoes, chunked onion, garlic powder, salt, and cayenne pepper.
- Simmer until flavors meld and the onion is tender.
- Serve over spaghetti or macaroni.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of tomato paste or a splash of Texas Hot Sauce to the mixture. If you're looking for a healthier option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Additionally, fresh garlic can be used instead of garlic powder for a more robust taste. Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your heat preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Texas Red over spaghetti or macaroni for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete dinner. For added flavor, top with shredded cheese or chopped green onions. This dish is also a great filling for tacos or burritos, making it versatile for meal planning.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover to retain moisture. This dish freezes well, too; simply thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Texas Red contains roughly 418 calories, with 14g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (241% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (120% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (103% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 29g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 Texas Red ahead of time?
Absolutely! Texas Red can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. In fact, the flavors often improve after a day. Just reheat on the stove or microwave before serving. This makes it a great option for meal prep or gatherings.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.
How spicy is this recipe?
The spiciness of Texas Red can be adjusted by altering the amount of cayenne pepper. For a milder dish, start with less and taste as you cook. If you enjoy heat, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce like Texas Hot Sauce for an extra kick.
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).