If you love tacos and crave the comforting goodness of spaghetti, this Taco Spaghetti recipe is about to become your new favorite weeknight dinner. Combining zesty taco flavors, rich tomato sauce, tender pasta, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is a quick, one-pan meal that delivers big, bold flavors with minimal effort.
Perfect for busy nights, this dish requires no separate boiling of pasta—everything cooks together, infusing the spaghetti with rich, meaty, taco-seasoned goodness. It’s a crowd-pleaser, easy to customize, and ready in just 30 minutes.
Let’s dive into this irresistible Tex-Mex spaghetti recipe!
---
Why You’ll Love This Taco Spaghetti
✔ One-Pan Wonder: No need to cook the pasta separately—everything simmers in one skillet.
✔ Bold, Zesty Flavors: A perfect blend of taco seasoning, tomatoes, and cheese.
✔ Family-Friendly: A dish that both kids and adults will love.
✔ Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
✔ Customizable: Add your favorite toppings for extra flavor.
---
Ingredients & Their Role in the Dish
For the Taco Spaghetti:
12 oz spaghetti – The base of the dish, absorbing all the delicious taco flavors.
1 lb ground beef – Adds a hearty, meaty texture. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade blend) – Brings classic Mexican-inspired spices like cumin, paprika, and chili powder.
1 can Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained) – Infuses the dish with a slightly spicy, tangy kick.
2 cups beef broth – Helps cook the pasta while adding depth of flavor.
1 cup tomato sauce – Creates a rich, saucy base for the spaghetti.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into the pasta for extra creaminess and cheesy goodness.
1/4 cup diced red onion – Adds a slight crunch and sharpness to balance the richness.
1 tbsp olive oil – Helps brown the meat and enhances the flavor.
Fresh cilantro (for garnish) – Provides a burst of freshness and color.
Optional Toppings for Extra Flavor:
Sour cream – Adds a creamy, tangy contrast.
Avocado or guacamole – Provides a buttery, smooth texture.
Jalapeños – For those who love extra heat.
Crushed tortilla chips – Adds a crunchy topping.
---
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Taco Spaghetti
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add 1 lb ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.
Drain any excess grease for a leaner dish.
Step 2: Add the Seasoning & Tomatoes
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef and stir well to coat.
Pour in the Rotel tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, and tomato sauce.
Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti
Break the spaghetti in half and add it to the skillet.
Stir to make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid.
Cover and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spaghetti is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 4: Add Cheese & Let It Melt
Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese over the spaghetti.
Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt for 2–3 minutes.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Top with diced red onion and fresh cilantro for extra freshness.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
---
Pro Tips for the Best Taco Spaghetti
✅ Use freshly shredded cheese – Pre-packaged shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
✅ Don’t overcook the spaghetti – Stir occasionally and keep an eye on the liquid level to ensure perfect texture.
✅ Make it creamy – Add ¼ cup cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream for an ultra-rich version.
✅ Spice it up – Add a few dashes of hot sauce or extra chili powder for more heat.
✅ Swap the pasta – Try penne, rotini, or even low-carb zucchini noodles for a twist.
---
What to Serve with Taco Spaghetti
This dish is delicious on its own, but here are some great sides to complete your meal:
Mexican Street Corn Salad – A creamy, tangy side with roasted corn.
Refried Beans – Adds extra protein and a classic Tex-Mex touch.
Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Fresh Green Salad – A crisp, refreshing balance to the rich pasta.
---
Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Tex-Mex Pasta Fusion
This Taco Spaghetti is proof that combining two comfort food classics—tacos and spaghetti—creates something truly special. Easy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors, it’s a one-pan meal that will quickly become a family favorite.
Whether you're looking for a quick dinner idea or something fun and different for Taco Tuesday, this dish delivers! Try it today and let us know how you customize your Taco Spaghetti.
Love This Recipe? Share It!
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to pin it, share it,
and tag your friends who love easy, flavorful meals! Stay tuned for more delicious, family-friendly recipes that are perfect for busy nights.
0 comments:
Post a Comment