Tex Mex Stovetop Pasta with Ground Beef and Kidney Beans
A hearty one-pot pasta dish that combines seasoned ground beef with bell peppers, kidney beans, and tomato puree in a spicy Tex-Mex blend. The cumin and cayenne pepper create a warming kick while fresh cilantro adds brightness. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners when you want something satisfying and flavorful without much cleanup. The pasta absorbs the savory sauce, making each bite rich and comforting.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small white onion, diced
- 1 ½ cup bell peppers, cut in 1-inch cubes
- 2 medium garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 14 oz can kidney beans
- 2 cups tomato puree
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro
- 3 cups pasta, cooked
- fresh cilantro
Instructions
- 1
Season ground beef with garlic and spices in a medium bowl
- 2
Heat oil in skillet over medium high heat
- 3
Cook onion and bell peppers for 2 minutes
- 4
Add seasoned beef and cook for 1 minute, breaking it up
- 5
Add beans, tomato puree and cilantro
- 6
Stir and bring to a simmer for 1 minute
- 7
Switch off stove and add cooked pasta
- 8
Stir to combine and adjust salt and pepper if needed
- 9
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot
Tips
Cook pasta separately and slightly underdone since it will absorb sauce when mixed
Use any pasta shape you prefer - penne, rotini, or shells work particularly well for holding the chunky sauce
Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes after mixing to allow flavors to meld and pasta to absorb more sauce
Good to Know
Store leftovers in airtight container in refrigerator for up to 5 days
Can be made 1 day ahead and reheated gently on stovetop with splash of water
Serve hot garnished with fresh cilantro
Common Mistakes
Cook pasta separately to avoid mushy texture
Do not overcook vegetables to maintain some crunch
Season beef thoroughly before cooking for better flavor distribution
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I use a different type of bean?
Yes, black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas work well as substitutes for kidney beans with similar cooking times.
What if I do not have tomato puree?
You can substitute with crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce, though the consistency will be slightly different.
How long will this keep in the refrigerator?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on stovetop with a splash of water if needed.