Craving something savory and comforting?
Taco Spaghetti is the ultimate fusion of two favorite dishes—tacos and spaghetti—
creating a meal that’s bursting with flavor, yet quick enough for any weeknight.
With just one pan and under 30 minutes, this easy-to-make recipe will have everyone asking for seconds!
Get ready to enjoy the taco-inspired goodness mixed with hearty spaghetti in a simple, satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy nights.
For Taco Spaghetti
- Olive Oil – Used for sautéing the ground beef and onions.
- Ground Beef – The main protein of the dish, providing a savory, hearty base.
- Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the beef mixture.
- Taco Seasoning – A pre-mixed spice blend that gives the dish its bold taco flavor.
- Rotel Tomatoes – These diced tomatoes (with juices) bring a bit of tanginess and spice.
- Spaghetti Noodles – The classic pasta, which absorbs the flavors of the taco sauce.
- Water – Used to cook the spaghetti noodles and create the sauce mixture.
- Cheddar Cheese – Shredded for a melty, cheesy topping to add richness and flavor.
- Cilantro – Freshly chopped for garnish, offering a burst of freshness to finish the dish.
Taco Spaghetti
Notes
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- ¼ cup yellow onion, chopped
- ¼ cup taco seasoning (or 1 packet)
- 10 oz can Rotel diced tomatoes (do not drain)
- 8 oz uncooked spaghetti noodles
- 3 cups water
- 4 oz shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
-
Cook the Beef:
- Heat olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and onion.
- Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are soft and translucent.
-
Add Seasoning and Noodles:
- Stir in taco seasoning and Rotel tomatoes (with juices).
- Add uncooked spaghetti noodles and water.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
-
Simmer:
- Once the water boils, reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
-
Combine and Serve:
- Remove from heat.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta and stir to mix.
- Top with the remaining cheese and fresh cilantro.
Tips:
- Toppings: Add extra taco toppings like diced tomatoes, black olives, or chopped onions, either mixed in or as a garnish.
- Bake for Extra Flavor: For a baked version, transfer the mixture to a casserole dish, sprinkle with cheese, bake at 350°F for 10 minutes, then broil for 3-5 minutes to brown the cheese.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients will enhance the flavor of this dish.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure the spaghetti is cooked al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Brown the Meat Well: Browning the meat deeply will add more flavor to the dish.
- One-Pot Cooking: This recipe is designed for one-pan cooking, making cleanup easy and the flavors more concentrated.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
- Garnish: Add a final touch with fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream.
Jenn’s Notes:
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Nutrition
Calories: 391kcal | Carbohydrates: 37g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 67mg | Sodium: 976mg | Potassium: 470mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1259IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 169mg | Iron: 4mg
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you absolutely can! While spaghetti is traditional, feel free to swap it for other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or macaroni. Just keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure your pasta is perfectly done.
- Is ground beef the only protein option?
Not at all! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based substitute work perfectly. Each choice will give the dish a slightly different flavor, but it will still be delicious.
- Can I prep Taco Spaghetti ahead of time?
You sure can! Prepare everything in advance, store it in an airtight container, and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready, just reheat and serve. It’s a lifesaver for busy nights!
- How do I make it spicier?
Add extra heat by including diced jalapeños, a bit of hot sauce, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes. Customize it to your spice tolerance and enjoy a fiery kick!
- Can I freeze Taco Spaghetti?
Yes, Taco Spaghetti freezes really well! Once it’s cooled, store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It’ll stay good for up to 3 months. To reheat, just thaw it overnight and warm it up on the stove, adding a bit of water to bring it back to the right consistency.
