Mexican White Spaghetti (Espagueti Blanco)

Growing up in a household where pasta dishes were always part of the weekly rotation, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for recipes that blend simplicity with bold flavors. One dish that holds a special place in my heart is Espagueti Blanco, or Mexican White Spaghetti. This creamy and comforting recipe is one I often turn to when I want something quick, hearty, and undeniably satisfying. It’s a beloved classic in many Mexican kitchens, often served alongside grilled meats, especially during festive gatherings or Sunday family lunches. My version brings out the smooth, velvety texture of the white sauce while adding a few subtle touches to make it extra flavorful and easy to whip up.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons why Mexican White Spaghetti deserves a spot on your table. First and foremost, it’s incredibly creamy and rich, thanks to a combination of Mexican-style cream and cheese. But what really makes it shine is its simplicity. You don’t need complicated ingredients or a long cooking time. In fact, most of the components might already be in your pantry or fridge. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a weeknight or preparing a side dish for a larger meal, this recipe is always a hit. Its mild flavor profile also makes it great for kids and picky eaters.

Versatile

What I love most about this dish is how versatile it is. You can serve it as a side dish to roasted chicken, grilled turkey bacon, or even beef steaks. It’s also filling enough to enjoy on its own with a crisp green salad. You can toss in vegetables like peas, corn, or diced carrots for added nutrition, or even top it with shredded chicken for a heartier version. Whether you keep it classic or add your twist, it’s a recipe that easily adapts to your needs.

Affordable

Mexican White Spaghetti is also wonderfully budget-friendly. You only need a handful of ingredients: pasta, cream, cheese, garlic, and butter. You can skip expensive items and still end up with a dish that tastes luxurious and comforting. It’s one of those meals that proves you don’t need to spend a lot to eat well.

Ingredients for the Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this dish:

• 400g spaghetti

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1 cup Mexican-style crema (or sour cream as a substitute)

• ½ cup milk

• ½ cup cream cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: ½ cup cooked turkey bacon (chopped)

• Optional: parsley or cilantro for garnish

HOW TO PREPARE THIS RECIPE – Mexican White Spaghetti (Espagueti Blanco)

Preparing Mexican White Spaghetti is one of those rewarding experiences where minimal effort brings maximum flavor. I often reach for this recipe when I need something that comes together quickly, yet feels like a dish made with care and love. The entire process takes less than 30 minutes, and you’ll only need one pot for the pasta and a single pan for the sauce—ideal for busy weekdays or last-minute dinner ideas.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add a generous pinch of salt once the water starts boiling. Then, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8–10 minutes, until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside. You can drizzle a little oil over the pasta to prevent it from sticking if it’s going to sit for a bit.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it; you want just enough golden color to release its flavor.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Base
Lower the heat slightly. Add the Mexican crema (or sour cream) into the pan, then stir in the milk and cream cheese. Mix until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture looks smooth. Stir constantly to avoid lumps and make sure everything blends seamlessly.

Step 4: Add the Cheese
Gradually add the shredded mozzarella cheese to the sauce. Stir until the cheese has melted and you get a creamy, stringy, smooth sauce. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. You may also add a pinch of chicken bouillon powder if you’d like a deeper, savory flavor.

Step 5: Combine with the Pasta
Once the sauce is ready, toss in the cooked spaghetti. Stir thoroughly until every strand is coated in the luscious white sauce. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes on low heat to allow the pasta to absorb the flavors.

Step 6: Add Optional Ingredients
If you’re using chopped turkey bacon, this is the time to stir it in. For a lighter touch, try steamed peas or sautéed mushrooms. The base is so creamy and mild that almost anything you add will work beautifully without overpowering the dish.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once fully combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top before serving. Serve hot, preferably with grilled chicken or a simple vegetable salad on the side.

Quick and Easy

What makes this dish truly appealing is how little effort it takes to get such a comforting result. There’s no need for fancy equipment or ingredients. You can prep everything ahead, and even reheat leftovers the next day—the sauce stays creamy and delicious.

Customizable

This recipe easily adjusts to what you have in your kitchen. No mozzarella? Use Monterey Jack or any mild, melty cheese. Want it spicier? Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes. You can even make it vegetarian by skipping the turkey bacon and adding roasted vegetables or grilled tofu.

Popular with Many People

This is one of those dishes I often make for potlucks or family dinners, and it always gets rave reviews. Children love it for the creamy cheese sauce, while adults appreciate its rich texture and balanced flavor. It’s one of those comforting recipes that brings everyone to the table and guarantees empty plates.

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FAQs – Mexican White Spaghetti (Espagueti Blanco)

Q: Can I use regular cream instead of Mexican crema?
A: Yes, you can substitute Mexican crema with sour cream or a mixture of heavy cream and sour cream. The texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
A: Absolutely. Simply omit the turkey bacon and consider adding vegetables like mushrooms, peas, or zucchini to keep it flavorful.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much.

Q: Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
A: You can cook the pasta and prepare the sauce separately ahead of time. When ready to serve, combine and heat everything through.

Q: What cheese works best if I can’t find mozzarella?
A: Monterey Jack, Chihuahua cheese, or even a mild cheddar can work well as substitutes, keeping the creamy, melty texture.

Q: How can I make the dish spicier?
A: Add finely chopped jalapeños, chili flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce when cooking for a mild heat boost.