Introduction
Taco Spaghetti is the perfect fusion recipe when classic comfort food meets bold Tex-Mex flavor. This dish brings together tender spaghetti noodles, seasoned ground beef, and rich, cheesy taco-inspired sauce in one satisfying meal. I like making Taco Spaghetti on nights when I want something familiar yet exciting, and it always hits the spot. The combination of pasta and taco seasoning may sound unexpected at first, but it works beautifully, creating a hearty dish that feels both comforting and fun. What makes this recipe especially appealing is how quickly it comes together using pantry staples, making it ideal for busy weeknights. It is filling, family-friendly, and easy to customize based on what you have on hand. Whether served straight from the skillet or baked with extra cheese on top, Taco Spaghetti is a crowd-pleasing dinner that delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
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Taco Spaghetti – Bold, Cheesy, and Comfortingly Delicious
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Taco Spaghetti is a fun, flavorful fusion dish that combines creamy Tex-Mex seasoned ground beef with pasta, creating a comforting, cheesy one-pot meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes with green chiles
- 2 cups beef broth
- 8 oz spaghetti, broken in half
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium heat until browned; drain excess fat.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Stir in taco seasoning, Rotel, beef broth, tomato sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Add spaghetti, making sure noodles are submerged in liquid.
- Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
- Garnish with cilantro or green onions and serve warm.
Notes
- Add corn or black beans for extra texture and flavor.
- Use ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Top with sour cream or jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is quick, hearty, and full of bold flavor. It combines the comfort of pasta with the zest of tacos, making it a guaranteed hit for both kids and adults.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Spaghetti pasta
Spaghetti provides a sturdy base that holds the sauce well.
Ground beef
Ground beef adds richness and hearty protein.
Onion
Onion builds savory depth and flavor.
Garlic
Garlic enhances the dish with aromatic warmth.
Taco seasoning
Taco seasoning delivers classic Tex-Mex spices.
Tomato sauce
Tomato sauce creates a rich, flavorful base.
Diced tomatoes
Diced tomatoes add texture and freshness.
Beef broth
Beef broth helps loosen the sauce and adds depth.
Cheddar cheese
Cheddar melts smoothly and adds cheesy comfort.
Cream cheese
Cream cheese adds richness and a creamy texture.
Salt
Salt balances and enhances flavor.
Black pepper
Black pepper adds gentle warmth.
Olive oil
Olive oil is used for sautéing.
Fresh cilantro
Cilantro adds freshness and color when serving.
Directions
Begin by cooking the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, then stir in garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
Sprinkle taco seasoning over the beef mixture and stir to coat evenly. Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer gently until slightly thickened.
Reduce heat and stir in cream cheese until fully melted and smooth. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss until evenly coated. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and allow it to melt before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately 6 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 25 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftover Taco Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Variations and Customizations
Taco Spaghetti is easy to customize. You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Add black beans, corn, or bell peppers for extra texture. For a spicier version, add jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. You can also bake the finished spaghetti with extra cheese on top for a casserole-style dish. Serve with sour cream, sliced avocado, or green onions for added toppings.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
This dish is high in protein and contains dairy and gluten. It can be adapted using gluten-free pasta and dairy-free cheese alternatives. Nutritional values vary depending on ingredients used.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Cook Pasta Al Dente
This prevents mushy spaghetti.
Balance the Spice
Adjust taco seasoning to taste.
Add Cheese Gradually
This ensures a smooth, creamy sauce.
FAQs
Does Taco Spaghetti really taste like tacos?
Yes, it has classic taco flavor with a pasta twist.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats very well.
Can I bake this dish?
Yes, bake with extra cheese for a casserole.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, use mild taco seasoning.
Can I freeze Taco Spaghetti?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar or Mexican cheese blends work well.
Can I make it spicy?
Yes, add hot sauce or jalapeños.
What sides go well with this?
A simple salad or garlic bread pairs nicely.
Can I use another pasta shape?
Yes, penne or rotini also work.
Does this work as a one-pot meal?
Yes, if pasta is cooked separately first.
Conclusion
Taco Spaghetti is a bold, comforting recipe that brings together two favorite cuisines in one satisfying dish. Cheesy, hearty, and packed with Tex-Mex flavor, this easy dinner is perfect for busy weeknights, family meals, or anytime you want something fun and filling on the table.
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