If you’re searching for a fun twist on two beloved dinner classics, this Taco Spaghetti Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine the bold, zesty flavors of taco seasoning melding beautifully with tender spaghetti, ground beef, and a rich, cheesy sauce that makes every bite irresistible. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that feels both comforting and exciting, bringing a fiesta of taste to your table in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish combines simplicity and creativity in the best way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this taco spaghetti recipe lies in its simple, straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating a harmonious and crave-worthy dish. From the savory beef base to fresh aromatics and melty cheddar, this collection delivers a perfect balance of texture, color, and flavor.
- 12 ounces spaghetti: Your classic pasta that soaks up all the flavorful sauce for a hearty bite.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: Adds protein and a rich, savory depth to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sauté the aromatics gently without overpowering the dish.
- 1 small onion, diced: Brings a natural sweetness and crunch when cooked just right.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds that unmistakable punch of flavor that lifts the entire recipe.
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning): The star blend that infuses the dish with classic taco vibes.
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies), undrained: Offers a zesty kick and vibrant color straight from the can.
- 1 cup tomato sauce: Creates a silky base that ties all the components together.
- 2 cups beef broth: Adds depth and moisture while helping to simmer the sauce perfectly.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts in beautifully, giving you that dreamy gooey texture.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh, herbal finish to brighten every forkful.
- Sour cream (optional, for serving): A cooling sidekick for the bold flavors, making each bite smoother.
How to Make Taco Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
First things first, boil up that spaghetti until it’s perfectly al dente — tender but with a slight bite. This is essential because the pasta will continue to mingle with the sauce later without getting mushy. Once cooked, drain it and set it aside for the moment.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, then toss in the diced onions. Let them soften and turn translucent, which usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook it for just 30 seconds until it fills the kitchen with its wonderful aroma. This step lays a flavorful foundation for the rest of the dish.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
This is where the magic of savory tastiness happens. Add the ground beef to your pot and cook it over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula. Let it brown nicely and cook through until no pink remains. Drain off any excess fat if needed—this keeps the sauce rich but not greasy.
Step 4: Add Seasoning and Liquids
Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and stir to coat every bit of that beefy goodness with delicious spices. Pour in the undrained Rotel tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Give everything a good mix, then lower the heat and let it all come to a gentle simmer. This simmering step allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly, setting the stage for the next step.
Step 5: Combine with Spaghetti
Now it’s time to reunite the spaghetti with the flavorful sauce. Add the cooked pasta right back into the pot and toss everything together until the spaghetti is fully coated. This step ensures each strand is bursting with taco-infused yumminess, turning two separate favorites into one unforgettable dish.
Step 6: Add Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the steaming pasta mixture and stir until it melts into a creamy, gooey dream. This final addition makes your Taco Spaghetti Recipe ultra comforting and a little indulgent, with cheesy pockets scattered throughout every bite.
Step 7: Serve
Dish out this beautiful taco spaghetti while it’s hot, topping with fresh chopped cilantro if you like a little herbal brightness. Don’t forget a dollop of sour cream on the side for a cool, tangy contrast. You’re ready to enjoy a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
How to Serve Taco Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro is an absolute game-changer when it comes to garnishing this dish—it adds a lovely pop of color and a hint of fresh, citrusy flavor that cuts through the richness. A spoonful of sour cream on each serving can also balance the spices and add a creamy texture that’s simply irresistible. For even more flair, try some diced avocado or sliced jalapeños for a boost of creaminess or heat.
Side Dishes
Because this Taco Spaghetti Recipe is already flavor-packed, pairing it with simple, fresh sides works best. A crisp green salad with a light lime vinaigrette or some crunchy tortilla chips on the side offer a nice contrast. Cornbread or Mexican street corn can also complement the dish wonderfully, bringing a sweet and savory balance to the table.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve this taco spaghetti in individual small cast-iron skillets or colorful bowls to make each portion feel special. You could also turn it into a layered casserole, baking the mixture topped with extra cheese and crushed tortilla chips until golden and bubbly. This can be great for potlucks or meal prepping in advance.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover taco spaghetti stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day, making it perfect for an easy lunch or weeknight dinner straight from the fridge.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this dish, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It keeps well for up to 2 months—just be mindful that the texture of the spaghetti might soften slightly after thawing, but the flavor remains spot on.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also microwave it covered, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Add a little extra cheese on top for a melty finish after reheating!
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option that works well in this Taco Spaghetti Recipe. Just cook it the same way you would the beef, and expect a slightly lighter flavor but every bit as tasty.
Is this recipe spicy?
The level of spice mostly comes from the taco seasoning and the Rotel tomatoes. If you prefer milder flavors, use a mild taco seasoning packet or reduce the amount used. You can always add heat later with jalapeños or hot sauce if you want more kick.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Certainly! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The taco seasoning and cheeses will still give you that satisfying taco-inspired flavor.
What type of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar cheese melts beautifully and adds a rich flavor that complements the taco spices perfectly. You could also mix in some Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for a milder, creamier texture.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, this Taco Spaghetti Recipe scales up really well. Just double all the ingredients and use a larger pot to ensure even cooking and mixing. This also makes great leftovers for busy weeks.
Final Thoughts
This Taco Spaghetti Recipe is such a delightful mash-up that feels both familiar and exciting, bringing together the best flavors of taco night and Italian comfort food. It’s easy to prepare, hits all the right notes, and makes dinner feel like a celebration no matter the day. I truly encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s bound to become a fast favorite in your meal rotation!
Print
Taco Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American Fusion
Description
Taco Spaghetti is a quick, flavorful fusion dish combining classic Mexican taco seasoning with hearty spaghetti and ground beef. Ready in just 30 minutes, this easy recipe offers a delicious twist on traditional pasta, featuring seasoned beef, Rotel tomatoes, and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces spaghetti
Beef Mixture
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies), undrained
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Sour cream (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: Prepare the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent and soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot with the aromatics. Cook over medium-high heat, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned thoroughly and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat from the pot if necessary to reduce greasiness.
- Add Seasoning and Liquids: Stir in the taco seasoning to evenly coat the beef mixture. Add the undrained Rotel tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix all ingredients well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to blend the flavors and heat through.
- Combine with Spaghetti: Return the cooked spaghetti to the pot with the beef and sauce mixture. Toss together thoroughly so that the pasta is evenly coated with the taco-flavored sauce.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the combined mixture. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely and incorporates into the sauce, creating a creamy texture.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro if desired, and serve alongside sour cream for added creaminess. Enjoy your hearty and flavorful taco spaghetti!
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or hot sauce to taste.
- To make this dish vegetarian, substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- To enhance creaminess, you can add a splash of heavy cream when adding cheese.
- Fresh cilantro and sour cream are optional but add authentic flavor and creaminess to the dish.
