This Mexican Pasta is a fun twist on classic spaghetti! It’s loaded with vibrant flavors from tomatoes, cilantro, and spicy peppers, giving you a taste of Mexico in every bite.
Honestly, who knew pasta could party like this? I love how easy it is to make—just toss everything together, and you’ve got a delicious meal ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rigatoni: This chewy pasta holds the sauce well. If you’re out of rigatoni, you can use penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti in a pinch. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Ground Beef or Turkey: I usually opt for ground turkey for a lighter taste, but both work great! You can substitute with ground chicken, lentils, or crumbled tofu if you’re looking for a meat alternative.
Jalapeños: These spicy little guys add a kick! If you prefer less heat, use bell peppers instead or skip them altogether. You can also go for poblano peppers for a different flavor.
Corn: I love using fresh corn when it’s in season for sweetness. Frozen corn is also a great all-year option. Canned corn works too—just drain it well before adding.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can use parsley or simply leave it out. Both will still give you a tasty dish!
How Do I Ensure My Sauce is Flavorful?
The secret to a tasty sauce is layering flavors. Start by sautéing your onions until they’re soft and slightly golden. This brings out their sweetness. Don’t rush the steps!
- After adding the garlic and jalapeños, cook until fragrant. This step is key to releasing their essential oils.
- When adding the spices, stir them into the meat to coat it well. This enhances their flavors.
- Allow the sauce to simmer so everything blends beautifully. It should be slightly thick when done; if too runny, let it cook longer.
Remember, taste as you go! Adjust salt and spices according to your liking to make it just right.
How to Make Mexican Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta:
- 12 oz rigatoni or other tubular pasta
For the Filling:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers, deseeded and finely chopped (adjust to desired spice level)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
For the Sauce:
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Mexican melting cheese
- Freshly grated cotija or Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mexican Pasta will take you about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and another 20 minutes cooking. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil. Once it’s boiling, add the rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sautéing the Aromatics:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté it until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and jalapeño peppers. Cook everything together for about 1 minute until fragrant—your kitchen will smell amazing!
3. Browning the Meat:
Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Continue cooking until the meat is browned and cooked through, which should take around 6-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, carefully drain it out of the pan.
4. Making the Sauce:
Next, stir in the corn kernels, tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, ground cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 8-10 minutes, which will allow all those flavors to meld together.
5. Combining the Pasta:
Once your sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is well-coated in that delicious sauce.
6. Melting the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the pasta mixture. Cover the pan with a lid and let it sit for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Finishing Touches:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro for a fresh burst of flavor. Importantly, don’t skip this step—it really ties everything together!
8. Serving:
Serve your Mexican Pasta immediately, topped with extra cilantro and a sprinkle of cotija or Parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy a hearty bowl filled with love and flavor!
Get ready to dig in! This Mexican-inspired pasta dish is perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great substitute and adds a nutty flavor to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as whole wheat pasta may take a minute or two longer to cook.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you’re looking for more heat, you can leave the seeds in the jalapeños or add a splash of your favorite hot sauce into the sauce. Other spicy additions could include diced chipotle peppers in adobo or some cayenne pepper in the seasoning mix. Just add gradually to find your perfect spice level!
Can I Freeze Leftover Mexican Pasta?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Just allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What Can I Use Instead of Ground Meat?
If you’re looking for a meatless option, try using black beans or lentils as a substitute. You can also use sautéed mushrooms for a savory, hearty feel. Just proceed with the recipe as usual, making sure to season well for flavor!
