Tex-Mex Spaghetti
A fusion dish combining the flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine with the comfort of spaghetti. This hearty meal features ground beef, zesty spices, tomatoes, and cheese for a flavorful twist on traditional pasta.
- Author: sarra
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
- Diet: Halal
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel)
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add diced tomatoes, tomatoes with green chilies, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine.
- Simmer the sauce for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and stir until melted and well combined.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions if desired, then serve hot.
Notes
- For extra heat, add a diced jalapeño when cooking the onion.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta as needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Tex-Mex spaghetti, fusion pasta, ground beef spaghetti, cheesy spaghetti, easy Tex-Mex dinner