Let’s face it: dinnertime can sometimes feel like an epic showdown. Picky eaters, time constraints, and the never-ending question “What’s for dinner?” can leave you feeling like you’re on the verge of surrendering to boxed mac and cheese every night. But don’t raise that white flag just yet!
If you love tacos and pasta, why not combine the two into a meal that’s not only delicious but also ridiculously easy to make? Introducing the Mexican Spaghetti Recipe — a one-pot wonder that brings together Tex-Mex flavors and the comfort of spaghetti in under 30 minutes. Your kids will love it, you’ll love it, and your sink will love it too (fewer dishes to wash!).
Ready to spice up your dinner routine? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Mexican Spaghetti Recipe
- One Pot, Less Mess: Everything cooks together in one skillet, saving you time and cleanup.
- Super Customizable: Like tacos, this dish lets everyone add their favorite toppings.
- Kid-Approved: It’s a crowd-pleaser that blends familiar flavors with a fun twist.
- Healthy and Hearty: Lean protein, veggies, and just enough cheese to keep it tasty without overdoing it.
And the best part? It’s ready in about 30 minutes!
One-Pot Mexican Spaghetti Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground turkey or lean ground beef
- 1 small onion chopped
- 1 large bell pepper chopped (any color works!)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1½ teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon coarse black pepper
- 3 cups water
- 1 can 14.5 oz petite diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 8 ounces uncooked spaghetti broken in half
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese freshly shredded melts best!
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Optional toppings:
- avocado, lettuce, chopped tomatoes, green onions, jalapeños, or pickled red onions lettuce, chopped tomatoes, green onions, jalapeños, or pickled red onions
Pro Tip:
- If you have taco seasoning on hand use 1½ to 2 tablespoons as a quick swap for the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Instructions
- Prep the Spice Mix: In a small bowl, combine the flour, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Set it aside.
- Cook the Meat and Veggies: Heat a large skillet (with a lid) over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey, onion, and bell pepper. Cook until the meat is browned and the onions are translucent. Break up the meat as it cooks.
- Add the Flavor: Stir in the tomato paste and the prepared spice mix. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Create the Sauce: Add the water and the undrained diced tomatoes. Stir well, bring to a boil, and give it a good mix.
- Cook the Spaghetti: Add the broken spaghetti, stir, and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 10-11 minutes, stirring occasionally. If it seems dry, add a bit more water. The pasta should be al dente.
- Add Cheese and Cilantro: Once the spaghetti is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the shredded cheese and chopped cilantro until the cheese melts.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot with your favorite taco toppings. Let everyone customize their bowl — kids love adding their own finishing touches!
Notes
- Meat Options: Use ground turkey, beef, chicken, sausage, or chorizo.
- Reduce Sodium: Use no-salt-added tomatoes and tomato paste.
- Storage: Keeps 3-4 days in the refrigerator and freezes well.
- Cheese: For best results, shred cheese yourself to avoid added anti-caking agents.
Make It Your Own: Variations to Try
- Switch the Protein: Use ground chicken, chorizo, or black beans for a vegetarian twist.
- Add More Veggies: Throw in corn, extra bell peppers, or black olives for added texture and flavor.
- Go Green: For a twist, try a Green Spaghetti Mexican Recipe by blending roasted poblano peppers with cream and adding it to the spaghetti for a creamy, mildly spicy sauce.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in ½ cup of sour cream after removing the skillet from heat for extra creaminess.
Green Mexican Spaghetti Recipe Option
Craving a greener, creamier version? Try this Green Spaghetti Mexican Recipe! Just swap out the tomato-based sauce for a sauce made from blended poblano peppers, cilantro, cream, and garlic. The result? A vibrant, creamy dish that’s as fun to look at as it is to eat!
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Fresh Cheese is Best: Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly due to added cellulose.
- Customize Your Heat: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you like it spicy!
FAQs
What if My Spaghetti is Too Watery?
Simply raise the heat and let it boil off, or let it rest covered for 5-10 minutes. The pasta will absorb the excess liquid.
Can I Make This Ahead?
Absolutely! Prep the veggies and shred the cheese ahead of time to streamline the process.
How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze in a sealed container or flat freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave at 50% power or reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water.
Final Thoughts
This Mexican Spaghetti Recipe is your answer to busy weeknights, picky eaters, and the ever-present desire for something deliciously different. Whether you’re sticking to the classic version or trying a Green Mexican Spaghetti Recipe, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Give it a try, customize it to your heart’s content, and most importantly — enjoy every bite!
What’s your favorite way to make this recipe? Share your variations and tips in the comments below!
Looking for More Easy Mexican-inspired Recipes?
If you enjoyed this One-Pot Mexican Spaghetti, there’s a world of bold and comforting flavors waiting for you. Here are some must-try recipes that bring authentic Mexican vibes to your kitchen:
- Mexican Pizza Recipe – A delicious twist on a classic favorite.
- Best Cheesy Mexican Rice Recipe – Cheesy Mexican Rice is a quick and easy side dish made with only four ingredients.
- Authentic Mexican Chicken Soup – Warm, hearty, and full of traditional flavors.
- Jiffy Mexican Cornbread Recipe – A quick and flavorful side that pairs well with any meal.
- Mexican Hot Chocolate (Chocolate Caliente) – A rich and indulgent treat to end your meal on a sweet note.
Give these recipes a try and bring the vibrant taste of Mexico to your table!
Tried This Recipe?
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