If you love tacos and spaghetti, then you’re about to meet your new favorite dish—Taco Spaghetti! This fun, zesty, and comforting twist on classic spaghetti combines all the bold flavors of tacos with the hearty, satisfying goodness of pasta. Picture juicy seasoned beef, a rich tomato sauce, melted cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh toppings, all tucked into a warm bed of spaghetti. It’s like Taco Tuesday and Pasta Night got together and had a delicious baby. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer!

Why You’ll Love Taco Spaghetti

Name: Taco Spaghetti
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients: – 1 lb ground beef; – 1 tbsp olive oil; – 1 packet taco seasoning; – 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes; – 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce; – 2 cups cooked spaghetti; – 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; – 1/2 cup sour cream; – 1/4 cup sliced green onions; – 1/4 cup chopped cilantro; – 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (for garnish); – Salt and pepper to taste

Taco Spaghetti is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Here’s why you’ll be coming back for seconds (or thirds!):

Versatile: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your preferences—use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, throw in some extra veggies, or make it spicier with jalapeños.

Budget-Friendly: With just a handful of simple ingredients, this dish is perfect for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank.

Quick and Easy: It’s a one-pan wonder that takes just about 30 minutes to make. It’s perfect for busy nights when you need something delicious fast.

Customizable: Add your favorite taco toppings like sour cream, salsa, or even avocado. The possibilities are endless!

Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re feeding the family, hosting a casual dinner party, or meal prepping for the week, Taco Spaghetti will be a hit every time.

Ingredients in Taco Spaghetti

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

Ground Beef: The star of the show! Use lean ground beef for the perfect texture and flavor.

Spaghetti: A classic pasta choice, cooked until al dente, that gives the dish its signature spaghetti base.

Taco Seasoning: The magic ingredient that gives Taco Spaghetti its signature flavor—feel free to use store-bought or make your own.

Tomato Sauce: A rich, savory base that brings everything together and adds depth to the flavor.

Rotel Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes with green chilies add a little heat and extra flavor.

Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese that melts beautifully and adds a delicious cheesy finish to the dish.

Onion: A sweet and savory addition that enhances the flavor of the beef.

Garlic: A key ingredient that brings a burst of aromatic depth.

Olive Oil: Used to sauté the onions and garlic and cook the beef to perfection.

Sour Cream: For serving—this creamy topping perfectly balances the spicy, savory flavors.

Cilantro (optional): A fresh, fragrant garnish that adds a burst of color and brightness.

Instructions

Let’s dive in and make Taco Spaghetti!

Preheat Your Equipment: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. While it’s heating, heat up a large skillet over medium heat.

Cook the Spaghetti: Once the water is boiling, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions, then drain and set it aside.

Cook the Beef: While the pasta is cooking, add olive oil to the skillet and sauté the onions for 3-4 minutes until soft. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Next, add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked through.

Season the Beef: Stir in the taco seasoning, then add the tomato sauce and Rotel tomatoes. Let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the beef and sauce mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce.

Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and stir it in until the cheese is melted and gooey.

Serve and Enjoy: Plate your Taco Spaghetti, then top with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cilantro. Serve warm and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite!

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 550

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Taco Spaghetti

This Taco Spaghetti is a complete meal in itself, but here are a few ideas to make your dinner even more satisfying:

– Pair it with a side of crispy tortilla chips and guacamole for a fun and festive addition.
– Serve with a side salad to balance out the richness of the dish—something like a simple Mexican corn salad or a green salad with a lime dressing.
– If you’re craving more spice, drizzle with your favorite hot sauce or salsa for an extra kick!

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
– If you like it extra cheesy, you can top the whole dish with a layer of cheese and broil it for a few minutes to get a crispy, golden top.
– Swap the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
– Make this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully!
– For added crunch, top your Taco Spaghetti with some crushed tortilla chips or chopped green onions.

FAQ’s

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While spaghetti is the classic choice, feel free to use penne, rigatoni, or any pasta you prefer.
How do I make this dish spicier?
Add diced jalapeños to the sauce or sprinkle chili flakes on top for extra heat.
Can I use homemade taco seasoning?
Absolutely! Homemade taco seasoning is a great way to control the flavors and spice level. Just combine chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Definitely! You can add bell peppers, zucchini, or even corn to the sauce for extra texture and flavor.
Can I make Taco Spaghetti ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare everything up to the point of adding the cheese, then store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat and add cheese when ready to serve.
Can I make Taco Spaghetti in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours.
Can I freeze Taco Spaghetti?
Yes! Store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
Greek yogurt is a great alternative if you’re looking for a healthier option.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! You can use any cheese you like, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a spicy pepper jack for more heat.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
Substitute the ground beef with black beans, lentils, or a meat alternative like tofu or tempeh.

Conclusion

Taco Spaghetti is the perfect fusion of two classic comfort foods, bringing together all the flavors of tacos with the satisfying heartiness of pasta. Whether you’re feeding the family or looking for a new dinner idea, this dish is a winner every time. So grab your skillet and let’s taco ’bout how delicious this meal is going to be!