There’s something magical about a dish that combines simple, pantry-friendly ingredients into a flavor-packed meal that feels like home. Spanish Noodles & Ground Beef is one of those comforting, hearty dishes that have been around for generations, bringing warmth to the dinner table. This dish is all about bold flavors, rich textures, and an irresistible smoky touch from crispy bacon.
With its roots in Spanish-inspired cuisine, this meal carries a delightful balance of savory beef, tender egg noodles, and a hint of heat from chili sauce. It’s a fuss-free, one-pan wonder that transforms everyday ingredients into a family favorite. Trust me, you’re going to love this one!
Why You’ll Love Spanish Noodles & Ground Beef
Is this Spanish Noodles & Ground Beef for you? Let’s see. Spanish Noodles & Ground Beef is…
- Bold and Flavorful – The combination of beef, chili sauce, and bacon gives this dish a deep, smoky taste.
- Quick and Easy – A 30-minute meal that comes together in one pan with minimal effort.
- Family-Friendly – A crowd-pleaser with flavors that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
- Customizable – Add veggies, swap proteins, or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Quick Tip: Want an extra punch of flavor? Try using fire-roasted diced tomatoes for a smoky depth!
Ingredients in Spanish Noodles & Ground Beef
Here’s what makes this dish truly shine:
Ground Beef: The star protein, offering rich, hearty flavor that pairs perfectly with the noodles.
Green Pepper: Adds a pop of color and a mild sweetness that balances the dish.
Onion: Provides depth and enhances the savory elements of the recipe.
Egg Noodles: Tender, soft noodles that soak up all the delicious sauce.
Diced Tomatoes: Juicy, tangy, and full of flavor to create a rich base.
Water: Helps cook the noodles to perfection.
Chili Sauce: Brings a slight kick and a touch of sweetness to the dish.
Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings that let all the other ingredients shine.
Bacon: Cooked to crispy perfection and crumbled for an irresistible smoky crunch.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions:
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess grease.
Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped green pepper and onion to the skillet. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Combine the Ingredients: Stir in the uncooked egg noodles, diced tomatoes, water, chili sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
Simmer to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender and have absorbed the flavorful liquid.
Add the Bacon: Stir in the crumbled bacon for an extra layer of smoky goodness.
Serve and Enjoy: Dish up a generous portion and dig in while it’s warm and comforting!
How to Serve Spanish Noodles & Ground Beef?
- Fresh Salads: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette makes the perfect refreshing side.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
- Creamy Accompaniments: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a nice contrast to the dish.
- Vegetable Sides: Roasted carrots, zucchini, or asparagus make a great pairing.
- As a Standalone: This dish is hearty enough to enjoy on its own with just a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Tips & Variations
- Make It Spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Swap the Protein: Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist.
- Go Low-Carb: Replace egg noodles with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- Cheese It Up: Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan for a cheesy upgrade.
- Boost the Veggies: Toss in mushrooms, corn, or spinach for extra nutrients.
This Spanish Noodles & Ground Beef recipe is all about bold flavors and simple steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s a dinner-time favorite!
Spanish Noodles & Ground Beef
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small green pepper chopped
- ⅓ cup chopped onion
- 3-1/4 cups uncooked medium egg noodles about 6 ounces
- 1 can 14-1/2 ounces diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1-1/2 cups water
- ¼ cup chili sauce
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon pepper
- 4 bacon strips cooked and crumbled
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, green pepper, and onion until the beef is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Crumble the beef and drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the egg noodles, diced tomatoes (with juices), water, chili sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender.
- Top with crumbled bacon before serving. Enjoy hot!
