This innovative pasta dish merges the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine with traditional Italian pasta preparation techniques. The combination creates an exceptionally satisfying meal that elevates both culinary traditions while maintaining the convenience of a one-pan preparation method.
Culinary Background
This fusion dish emerged during the early 2000s as part of the growing interest in cross-cultural cuisine. It exemplifies how contemporary cooking continues to evolve, combining familiar comfort foods in novel ways while respecting their cultural origins.
Preparation Specifications
Total Time: 30 minutes
- Preparation: 10 minutes
- Cooking: 20 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings
Ingredients
US Measurements:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- ½ medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ pounds ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet (1.25 oz) taco seasoning
- 10 ounces diced tomatoes with green chiles
- 1½ cups beef broth
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 1½ cups shredded cheese
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
European Measurements:
- 30ml olive oil or 30g butter
- ½ medium onion (approximately 75g)
- 2 cloves garlic
- 680g ground beef or turkey
- 35g taco seasoning
- 280g diced tomatoes with green chiles
- 360ml beef broth
- 45g tomato paste
- 85g cream cheese
- 340g spaghetti
- 170g shredded cheese
- Fresh coriander for garnish
Essential Equipment
- Large pasta pot
- Colander
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Measuring implements
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
Detailed Instructions
1. Pasta Preparation
I begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The spaghetti is cooked according to package instructions until it reaches the al dente stage, typically 8-10 minutes. After draining, I reserve one cup of pasta water for potential sauce adjustment.
2. Aromatics and Protein
In a large skillet over medium heat, I heat the olive oil or butter until shimmering. The diced onion is sautéed for 3-4 minutes until translucent, followed by minced garlic for an additional minute, being careful not to brown the garlic. The ground beef is then incorporated and cooked until thoroughly browned, approximately 5-7 minutes.
3. Sauce Development
After draining excess fat, I introduce the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with chilies, beef broth, and tomato paste. The cream cheese is incorporated in small portions, allowing each addition to melt completely before proceeding. This technique ensures a smooth, well-integrated sauce.
4. Final Assembly
The cooked spaghetti is added to the sauce, and I toss thoroughly to ensure even coating. The shredded cheese is incorporated gradually, allowing it to melt and create a cohesive dish. If needed, reserved pasta water is added to achieve the desired consistency.
Nutritional Information
(Per serving, based on 8 servings)
- Calories: 485
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Calcium: 180mg
- Iron: 3mg
Professional Culinary Tips
Through extensive testing, I have identified several key factors that optimize this dish:
- Pasta Selection: Using bronze-die pasta provides superior sauce adhesion
- Temperature Control: Maintaining medium heat prevents the cream cheese from separating
- Protein Options: While beef provides traditional flavor, turkey or plant-based alternatives can be successfully substituted
- Cheese Selection: A combination of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack offers optimal melting properties and flavor
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
The dish maintains its quality when stored properly:
- Refrigeration: 3-4 days in an airtight container
- Freezing: Up to 2 months, though pasta texture may slightly deteriorate
- Reheating: Add 2-3 tablespoons of water or broth when reheating to restore original consistency
This fusion dish represents an excellent option for both casual family dinners and entertaining, offering familiar flavors in an innovative presentation while maintaining efficiency in preparation.
