Mexican Pasta is a fun twist on traditional pasta dishes, mixing noodles with bold flavors like salsa, beans, and spices. It’s like a fiesta on your plate!
Who knew pasta could dance with taco toppings? I love to add some cheese and fresh cilantro on top. It makes every bite feel like a celebration! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rigatoni: I love rigatoni for its ability to hold onto sauce. If you can’t find it, consider using penne or fusilli instead. They both work well with the mix of flavors!
Ground Beef or Turkey: While I prefer ground beef for its rich flavor, ground turkey is a great lean alternative. If you’re looking for a meat-free option, try using lentils or mushrooms for a hearty texture!
Black Beans: These add protein and a fantastic texture. If canned beans aren’t your thing, try cooked chickpeas or pinto beans instead. They’ll still add that great bean goodness!
Salsa: I opt for medium salsa for a nice kick, but you can adjust the heat according to your taste! Fresh salsa or pico de gallo can also be exciting substitutes if you want to add freshness.
Cheese: Shredded cheddar is my go-to, but Mexican blend works well too! For a twist, try crumbled queso fresco or a pepper jack for some heat!
How Can I Ensure My Pasta Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta might seem simple, but getting it just right is key for your dish. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Salt helps flavor the pasta from the inside out.
- Add pasta and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Follow the package instructions for cooking time, checking for doneness a minute before it’s supposed to be done.
- Taste a piece! It should be tender but firm, or “al dente.”
- Drain it, but reserve a cup of pasta water. This can help adjust your sauce’s consistency if needed!
Perfectly cooked pasta is the foundation of a great dish, so take your time here! 🍝
How to Make Mexican Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz rigatoni or preferred pasta
For the Meat and Vegetables:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup salsa (mild or medium)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Grated cotija or Parmesan cheese, for topping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, which includes around 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking. It’s a quick and easy meal, perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
While your pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until it has softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it smells amazing!
3. Brown the Meat:
Next, add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet. Cook it for about 6-8 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked. If there’s too much fat in the skillet, feel free to drain some off.
4. Make the Sauce:
Once the meat is cooked, stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and salsa. Then add the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Let it all simmer for about 8-10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend beautifully.
5. Combine Everything:
Now it’s time to toss the cooked rigatoni into the skillet with the sauce. Stir until all the pasta is nicely coated with that yummy sauce!
6. Add the Cheese:
Remove the skillet from heat, then sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the pasta. Cover it with a lid for about a minute to let the cheese melt, or stir it in if you like it extra cheesy.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Mexican Pasta warm, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro and a sprinkle of cotija or Parmesan cheese if you want. Dig in and enjoy your flavorful meal!
This hearty Mexican Pasta is a wonderful blend of comfort and bold flavors, making it a go-to dish for any occasion!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the regular rigatoni with gluten-free pasta such as brown rice or corn-based options. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package, as gluten-free pasta may have different cook times.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the ground meat and add more beans or vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. You can also add extra grains, like quinoa, for added protein and texture!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, and warm it on the stove or microwave until heated through.
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
Feel free to get creative with toppings! You can add avocado slices, jalapeños, sour cream, or even crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch. The possibilities are endless!
