Name: Creamy Mexican Green Spaghetti for a Quick Family Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 medium Poblano Peppers (Roasted); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil; 1 medium Onion (Diced); 1 medium Jalapeño or Serrano Pepper (Chopped); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced); 2 cups Spinach (Fresh); 1/2 cup Cilantro (Fresh); 1/2 cup Sour Cream or Crema Mexicana (For vegan option, use cashew cream); 1 cube Chicken or Vegetable Bouillon (Optional); 2/3 cup Milk or Half-and-Half (Almond or oat milk are great dairy-free alternatives); 4 ounces Cream Cheese (Softened); 12 ounces Spaghetti (Gluten-free option available); to taste Salt; to taste Black Pepper; to taste Chopped Cilantro; 1/2 cup Crumbled Cotija Cheese or Queso Fresco; 1/4 cup Pepitas

On hectic weeknights when cooking can feel like a chore, I often find myself longing for a dish that’s both quick and satisfying. Enter this vibrant Mexican Green Spaghetti, or Espagueti Verde—your new secret weapon for dinner! With its creamy roasted poblano sauce, this vegetarian delight comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings when you want to impress without the stress. Plus, it’s super versatile; you can easily tweak it to meet vegan preferences without losing any of that sumptuous flavor. Just imagine twirling forkfuls of this rich, green goodness as you gather around the table with loved ones. Curious about how to make this delightful dish? Let’s dive in!

Why is Mexican Green Spaghetti a Must-Try?

Creamy, Dreamy Sauce: This dish features a luscious roasted poblano sauce that envelops your spaghetti in rich flavor. Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the ultimate solution for busy weeknights. Vegetarian-Friendly: Perfect for meatless meals, with easy substitutions for a vegan twist! Satisfying & Filling: With pasta, greens, and cream, it checks all the comfort food boxes. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Your family will be asking for seconds of this vibrant and colorful dish, just like with the delicious Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole! They won’t believe how easy it was to create this homemade masterpiece.

Mexican Green Spaghetti Ingredients

For the Sauce

Poblano Peppers – Adds a rich flavor and vibrant green color; Anaheim peppers can be substituted.
Olive Oil – Perfect for sautéing veggies and imparting additional depth to the sauce.
Onion – Brings aromatic sweetness; yellow or white onion works well.
Jalapeño or Serrano Pepper – Adds mild heat; adjust based on your spice preference.
Garlic – Enhances flavor with its aromatic punch; always opt for fresh garlic for the best results.
Spinach – Boosts nutrition without compromising taste; you can swap for baby kale if desired.
Cilantro – Fresh herb that brightens up the poblano sauce.
Sour Cream or Crema Mexicana – A creamy base that enriches the sauce; for a vegan option, use cashew cream.
Chicken or Vegetable Bouillon – Adds umami depth; optional for a fully vegan version.
Milk or Half-and-Half – Thins the sauce to your preferred creaminess; almond or oat milk are great dairy-free alternatives.
Cream Cheese – Key for the sauce’s creaminess; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.

For the Pasta

Spaghetti – The heart of the dish; choose gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.

For Seasoning

Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; don’t skip these for a balanced flavor.

Optional Garnishes

Chopped Cilantro – For added freshness.
Crumbled Cotija Cheese or Queso Fresco – Adds a delightful salty bite.
Pepitas – Great for an extra crunch and flavor boost.

Dive into these luscious ingredients, and experience the magic of Mexican Green Spaghetti in your kitchen!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mexican Green Spaghetti

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the spaghetti and set it aside in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and chopped jalapeño or serrano pepper, cooking for about 3 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. The onion should be translucent and slightly golden. This aromatic base will enhance the flavors of your Mexican Green Spaghetti.

Step 3: Incorporate Garlic and Spinach
Next, add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional minute until it’s fragrant but not burnt. Toss in the fresh spinach, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes until it wilts down significantly. The vibrant color will indicate it’s ready to be blended into your creamy sauce.

Step 4: Blend the Sauce
Transfer the sautéed mixture to a blender. Add the roasted poblano peppers, fresh cilantro, sour cream, bouillon (if using), and 2/3 cup of milk. Blend until smooth and creamy, about 30 seconds. Adjust the amount of milk if needed for desired thickness. This luscious sauce is the heart of your Mexican Green Spaghetti!

Step 5: Combine Sauce and Pasta
Return the cooked spaghetti to the pot and pour the blended poblano sauce over the pasta. Gently toss to coat every strand evenly in the creamy sauce. Stir in the softened cream cheese until melted and fully incorporated. If the sauce appears too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until it reaches your preferred consistency.

Step 6: Season and Serve
Finally, season your Mexican Green Spaghetti with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately while hot, garnished with chopped cilantro, crumbled cotija cheese, and a sprinkle of pepitas for extra texture. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and the celebration that this dish brings to your family dinner!

Expert Tips for Mexican Green Spaghetti

Roast Peppers Well: Ensure you roast the poblano peppers until charred; this enhances their smoky flavor and adds depth to your sauce for the perfect Mexican Green Spaghetti.
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always use fresh garlic and spinach for a boost in flavor and nutrition. Freshness will truly elevate your dish!
Blend Smoothly: After blending the sauce, make sure it’s completely smooth to avoid any chunks; a smooth texture is key for a creamy sauce.
Adjust Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach the desired creaminess to avoid drying out the dish.
Customize It: Don’t hesitate to add extra vegetables like zucchini or peas; it’s a fun way to enhance the nutrition levels in your Mexican Green Spaghetti.
Taste as You Go: Always taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving, ensuring a well-balanced final dish loved by the whole family.

Storage Tips for Mexican Green Spaghetti

Fridge: Store leftover Mexican Green Spaghetti in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Keep the sauce and pasta separate if possible to maintain texture.

Freezer: You can freeze the sauce for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water or milk to restore creaminess and prevent separation.

Make-Ahead: Prepare the roasted poblano sauce 1-2 days in advance; store it in the fridge and simply heat it up when ready to combine with freshly cooked spaghetti!

Variations & Substitutions for Mexican Green Spaghetti

Feel free to get creative and customize your Mexican Green Spaghetti to fit your taste buds and dietary needs!

Vegan Option: Replace sour cream and cream cheese with cashew cream for a deliciously creamy, dairy-free sauce.
Gluten-Free: Swap regular spaghetti for gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten sensitivities.
Extra Heat: Add more jalapeño or serrano peppers, or toss in some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that livens up every bite.
Veggie Boost: Stir in extras like zucchini, bell peppers, or peas for added nutrition and vibrant color in your dish.
Smoky Flavor: Blend in a few drops of liquid smoke or use smoked paprika to take the flavor profile of your sauce to new heights.
Creamier Sauce: For an extra luxurious sauce, increase the amount of cream cheese or choose a full-fat version for a richer taste.
Nutty Twist: Toast some pepitas in a skillet and sprinkle them on top before serving for a crunchy texture that complements the creamy sauce.
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs by adding parsley or basil along with cilantro for a unique flavor twist.

With these simple substitutions and variations, your dinner can be as unique and delightful as the family and friends you share it with! For an interesting spin, you can also check out my recipe for Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole, which offers another delicious way to enjoy pasta!

Make Ahead Options

These Mexican Green Spaghetti are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the luscious roasted poblano sauce up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain that vibrant flavor. Additionally, you can cook the spaghetti ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 4 days, just be sure to toss it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. When ready to serve, reheat the pasta gently, add the creamy sauce, and mix well until heated through. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, stress-free dinner on busy weeknights, just as wonderful as if you made it fresh!

What to Serve with Creamy Mexican Green Spaghetti?

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this vibrant dish with delightful sides and accompaniments.

Garlicky Breadsticks: Perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce, these soft sticks add a delicious buttery garlicky flavor that complements the meal beautifully.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Juicy, sweet corn slathered with lime and chili powder adds a fun, fresh crunch that balances the creamy pasta perfectly.
Mexican Street Corn Salad: This colorful, zesty salad combines sweet corn, cilantro, and feta for a refreshing contrast to the rich spaghetti.
Crispy Tortilla Chips: Serve these crunchy chips alongside your spaghetti for a delightful texture contrast. Pair with fresh salsa for an added flavor kick!
Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado with diced tomatoes, onion, and lime creates a light yet satisfying accompaniment that enhances the dish’s flavors.
Margaritas: A refreshing margarita with a hint of tartness complements the rich flavors of the spaghetti, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Lime Sorbet: For dessert, a light and zesty lime sorbet offers the perfect refreshing finish after the creamy spaghetti. It cleanses the palate beautifully!

Mix and match these ideas to create the ultimate dining experience that rounds out your Mexican Green Spaghetti!

Mexican Green Spaghetti Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe poblano peppers for the sauce?
Absolutely! Look for poblano peppers that are firm with a vibrant green color. Avoid any with dark spots or wrinkles, as these may indicate overripeness. The best ones will be smooth and glossy, translating into a delicious flavor for your sauce.

What’s the best way to store leftover Mexican Green Spaghetti?
Very! Store leftover Mexican Green Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If possible, keep the sauce separate from the pasta to preserve their textures. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or reserved pasta water.

Can I freeze the sauce for later use?
Absolutely! You can freeze the roasted poblano sauce for up to 2 months. Place it in a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s airtight. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of liquid to maintain creaminess.

What should I do if my sauce turns out too thick?
Very common! If your sauce is too thick, gradually add a bit of reserved pasta water or milk until you reach your desired consistency. Stir it in slowly to avoid making it too watery. The goal is for the sauce to be silky smooth but cling nicely to the pasta.

Are there any dietary considerations for Mexican Green Spaghetti?
Absolutely! For vegetarian options, just ensure your bouillon is meat-free. To make it vegan, use cashew cream in place of sour cream and opt for almond or oat milk. This dish is naturally gluten-free if you choose gluten-free spaghetti. Always check ingredient labels for allergies or dietary restrictions when serving others!