Taco Spaghetti Recipe
If you’re craving something that’s both comforting and full of bold flavor, Taco Spaghetti is your answer!
This one-pan wonder combines the best of tacos and spaghetti into a quick, easy meal that’s packed with flavor and ready in just 30 minutes.
Whether you’re feeding the family or looking for a fun twist on your usual pasta, this fusion dish is guaranteed to satisfy.
Get ready to dig into a hearty, cheesy, and totally delicious dinner tonight!
For Taco Spaghetti
- Ground Beef – The hearty base for the dish, providing protein and flavor.
- Yellow Onion – Adds a bit of sweetness and depth to the dish.
- Taco Seasoning – The essential spice blend that gives the dish its bold, taco-inspired flavor.
- Rotel Tomatoes – Adds a bit of heat and extra juiciness to the sauce.
- Spaghetti Noodles – The pasta that carries all the flavors and ties the dish together.
- Water – Helps cook the pasta and create a flavorful sauce.
- Cheddar Cheese – The melty, gooey topping that enhances the dish’s creamy texture.
- Cilantro – A fresh garnish to bring a burst of flavor and color.
Taco Spaghetti Recipe
Taco Spaghetti is a fun and flavorful dish that combines two favorite meals: tacos and spaghetti. This easy, one-pan recipe comes together in less than 30 minutes, offering a delicious blend of Italian and Mexican flavors.
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PinServings: 6
Notes
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- ¼ cup yellow onion, chopped
- ¼ cup taco seasoning (or 1 packet)
- 10 oz can Rotel tomatoes (do not drain)
- 8 oz uncooked spaghetti noodles
- 3 cups water
- 4 oz shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup chopped cilantro
Instructions
- In a large 12-inch skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and onion, cooking until the meat is browned and the onions are softened and translucent.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, Rotel tomatoes (with juice), uncooked spaghetti noodles, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the spaghetti is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the pasta and stir it in to coat the spaghetti and meat mixture.
- Top with the remaining cheese and sprinkle with chopped cilantro before serving.
Jenn’s Tips
- Storing: Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- Toppings: Customize with taco toppings such as diced tomatoes, black olives, or onions. You can either mix them in or use them as a garnish.
- Baking Option: For extra cheesy flavor, transfer the mixture to a casserole dish, top with cheese, and bake at 350°F for 10 minutes. Then broil for an additional 3-5 minutes until the cheese is browned.
- Fresh Ingredients: For the best taste, use fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- Pasta Tip: Cook spaghetti al dente to ensure it doesn’t become mushy.
- Brown Meat: Be sure to fully brown the meat to enhance the flavor.
- One-Pan Convenience: This recipe is a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze while enhancing the flavors.
- Seasoning: Taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Top with extra cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for a refreshing finish.
- Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Yes! Feel free to substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a lighter version. The recipe will still taste great with your preferred protein. - Is there a way to make the dish spicier?
Absolutely! Add diced jalapeños or increase the amount of taco seasoning. You can also add hot sauce or red pepper flakes to bring more heat to the dish. - Can I use a different type of pasta?
Definitely! While spaghetti noodles work perfectly, you can use any pasta you have on hand, like penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta for a different twist. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meat and sauce in advance, store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, and then cook the spaghetti when you’re ready to eat. It makes for an easy meal prep option. - How do I make this dish less cheesy?
If you’re looking to reduce the cheese, simply use half the amount of cheddar cheese or substitute with a lighter cheese like mozzarella. You can also omit the cheese entirely for a lighter version.
