Oh my goodness, have I got a treat for you! This Mexican spaghetti casserole recipe is a game-changer in my kitchen. It’s hearty, flavorful, and oh-so-comforting, combining the best of pasta and Mexican cuisine in one scrumptious dish. Picture this: al dente spaghetti enveloped in a spicy tomato sauce, perfectly seasoned ground beef, and melty cheese that stretches when you serve it up. And the best part? It’s a breeze to whip together! Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe close for those busy weeknights or when you’re craving something deliciously different. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients for Mexican Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Mexican spaghetti casserole a hit! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 12 oz spaghetti: Any type will do, but I love using traditional spaghetti for that classic feel.
- 1 lb ground beef: You could also use ground turkey for a lighter version.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans: Make sure to drain them well for the right texture.
- 1 can (15 oz) corn: Again, drain it before adding to the mix.
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies: This adds a nice kick!
- 1 cup salsa: Choose your favorite brand or homemade for extra flavor.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Because cheese makes everything better!
- 1 tsp cumin: This spice gives it that authentic flavor.
- 1 tsp chili powder: Adjust to your spice preference.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
With these ingredients, you’re all set to create a delicious casserole that will wow your family and friends!
How to Prepare the Mexican Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Alright, let’s get cooking! Preparing this Mexican spaghetti casserole is as easy as pie, and I promise you, the delicious results are totally worth it. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and toasty when it’s time to bake. While that’s heating up, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Don’t forget to drain it well!
Next, grab a skillet and brown your ground beef over medium heat. Make sure to drain any excess fat so your casserole doesn’t get greasy. Once the beef is cooked, stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, salsa, cumin, chili powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Let that simmer for a few minutes to meld those flavors together beautifully. Now, it’s time to add the drained spaghetti to this flavorful mixture and stir it all up until everything is well combined.
Transfer the hearty mixture into a baking dish and top it generously with shredded cheddar cheese. Pop it in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until that cheese is all melted and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before diving in!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat and drain excess fat.
- Add black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, salsa, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the beef; stir well and let simmer for a few minutes.
- Combine the cooked spaghetti with the beef mixture until well mixed.
- Transfer to a baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk nutrition! This Mexican spaghetti casserole recipe is not just delicious; it also packs a punch when it comes to satisfying your hunger. Each serving is estimated to have around 450 calories, which is pretty great for a hearty meal! You’ll also be getting about 20 grams of fat, 25 grams of protein, and 45 grams of carbohydrates. Plus, it contains 6 grams of fiber, which is always a bonus. Keep in mind that these values can vary slightly based on the specific ingredients you use, but they give you a solid idea of what to expect. Enjoy your delicious and filling meal without a second thought!
Tips for Success
To make sure your Mexican spaghetti casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips I swear by! First, don’t overcook your spaghetti; you want it al dente so it holds up well in the casserole. Also, make sure to drain your beans and corn thoroughly to avoid a soggy dish. If you like a little extra heat, feel free to add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. Lastly, let it cool for a few minutes before serving; this will help it set up beautifully, making it easier to scoop out those perfect servings. Enjoy!
Variations of Mexican Spaghetti Casserole
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix things up with this Mexican spaghetti casserole! For a twist on protein, try using shredded rotisserie chicken or even chorizo for a spicier kick. You can also go vegetarian by swapping the meat for sautéed mushrooms or zucchini—both add great flavor! Want to amp up the veggies? Toss in some bell peppers, diced onions, or even spinach for an extra boost of nutrition. And if you’re a spice lover, don’t hesitate to throw in some cayenne pepper or extra chili powder to heat things up. The possibilities are endless, so get creative!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got this delicious Mexican spaghetti casserole ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it! A simple green salad with a zesty lime vinaigrette is a perfect complement, adding a refreshing crunch. If you’re in the mood for something a bit heartier, consider some warm, homemade cornbread or tortilla chips with salsa to scoop up those cheesy bites. And don’t forget the toppings! A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro can elevate the dish even more. Trust me, these pairings will make your meal even more delightful!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), storing your Mexican spaghetti casserole is super simple. Just let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, so you can enjoy those delicious flavors again!
When you’re ready to dig in, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and pop the casserole in for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal—just make sure to cover them to prevent splatters! Enjoy your leftovers just as much as the first time around!
FAQ About Mexican Spaghetti Casserole
Got questions about this Mexican spaghetti casserole recipe? I’ve got you covered!
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, just cover it tightly and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
What can I substitute for ground beef? Ground turkey or chicken are great lighter alternatives, and you can even use lentils or beans for a vegetarian option!
How do I know when it’s done? Look for bubbly, melted cheese on top. If you see that, it’s ready to enjoy!
Can I freeze leftovers? Yes! Just let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What can I add for extra flavor? Consider adding diced jalapeños, extra spices, or fresh herbs for a flavor boost. Enjoy experimenting!
Mexican food recipes are a great way to explore more delicious options like this casserole!
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Mexican Spaghetti Casserole Recipe: 7 Comforting Steps
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and flavorful Mexican spaghetti casserole that combines pasta with a spicy tomato sauce, ground meat, and cheese.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain.
- In a skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat; drain excess fat.
- Add black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, salsa, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the beef; stir well.
- Add cooked spaghetti to the mixture; combine thoroughly.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish; top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables.
- Substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Top with sour cream or avocado if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: mexican spaghetti casserole recipe
