Ziti And Mexican Meat Sauce
Ziti topped with a flavorful Mexican-style meat sauce combines tender pasta with seasoned beef, peppers, and a savory tomato and pimento mixture, perfect for hearty family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain and dice the pimentos.
- In a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef, green pepper, and onion, stirring often until the meat is browned and the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in water, tomato paste, pimentos, and sauce mix; heat to boiling over high heat.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cumin or chili powder to the meat mixture. If you don't have ziti, any pasta can be used as a substitute, such as penne or rigatoni. To enhance the nutritional value, you can stir in cooked black beans or corn. This dish pairs well with a side of cornbread for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ziti with a sprinkle of shredded cheese and fresh cilantro on top for added flavor. A side salad with avocado and lime dressing complements the dish well. Pair it with cornbread or garlic bread for a hearty meal. For a complete Mexican-inspired dinner, consider serving alongside Frijole Cheese Soup.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the ziti and meat sauce in a microwave-safe dish, cover it, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. For best results, add a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ziti And Mexican Meat Sauce contains roughly 556 calories, with 15g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (131% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value), and iron (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 786mg per serving (34% 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 meat sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Cook the ziti just before serving to keep it fresh. Simply reheat the sauce on the stovetop while cooking the pasta.
Can I use ground turkey instead of hamburger?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative to hamburger. It will still provide good flavor, especially when seasoned properly. Just ensure to cook it thoroughly until browned.
What can I serve with this dish?
This ziti pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. You might also consider serving it with tortilla chips and salsa for a crunchy side. For a more filling meal, a side of South Of The Border Stew would be an excellent choice.
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).