Taco Spaghetti

Why Make This Recipe

Taco Spaghetti is a fun and easy meal that puts a twist on traditional spaghetti. With the flavors of tacos and a creamy sauce, it’s a dish the whole family will love. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or something special for a gathering, Taco Spaghetti hits all the right notes. It’s comforting, filling, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for any occasion.

How to Make Taco Spaghetti

Ingredients:

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt for boiling water

For the Taco Meat Sauce:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade)
• 1 cup (240 ml) beef broth
• 1 cup (240 ml) tomato sauce
• 1 can (10 oz / 284 g) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
• ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 cup (110 g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup (110 g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Toppings (Optional but Recommended):

• Fresh cilantro (chopped)
• Sliced green onions
• Crushed tortilla chips
• Sour cream
• Jalapeño slices

Directions:

1. Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente (usually 8–10 minutes). Drain, toss with 1 tbsp olive oil, and set aside.

2. Brown the Beef: In a deep skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Add diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.

3. Build the Sauce: Sprinkle taco seasoning over the beef mixture. Stir in beef broth, tomato sauce, and Rotel. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 5–7 minutes to thicken.

4. Make It Creamy & Cheesy: Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream. Add cheddar and Monterey Jack, stirring until melted into a creamy taco sauce.

5. Combine: Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the sauce. Toss until every strand is coated and glossy. Let simmer on low for 2 more minutes to marry the flavors.

6. Serve: Top with cilantro, green onions, tortilla chips, sour cream, or jalapeños as desired.

How to Serve Taco Spaghetti

You can serve Taco Spaghetti right from the skillet or transfer it to a large serving dish. Make sure to offer some extra toppings on the side for those who want to add a little something extra. It pairs nicely with a simple salad or garlic bread.

How to Store Taco Spaghetti

To store leftover Taco Spaghetti, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a pan on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Tips to Make Taco Spaghetti

• Use lean ground beef for a healthier option, or try ground turkey or chicken.
• Feel free to adjust the taco seasoning to your taste! If you like it spicy, add more seasoning or some chopped jalapeños in the sauce.
• If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked spaghetti or the microwave to speed up the cooking process.

Variation

You can substitute the ground beef with beans for a vegetarian version. Add in grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein, or use different types of cheese based on your preference. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added nutrition and flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I make Taco Spaghetti ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook the pasta. Just combine them right before serving.

2. Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta.

3. Is Taco Spaghetti spicy?
The heat level depends on the taco seasoning and any optional toppings you add. You can adjust the amount of seasoning to suit your taste.