Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crockpot Taco Spaghetti is a comforting, flavorful mashup of two beloved dishes: tacos and spaghetti. This one-pot slow cooker meal delivers bold Tex-Mex flavors with tender pasta and savory beef, making it a family-friendly dinner that’s as easy to prepare as it is satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or make-ahead meals, this recipe combines convenience with crave-worthy taste.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beefoniontaco seasoningdiced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)beef brothtomato saucespaghetticheddar cheesecream cheeseoptional toppings: sliced olives, chopped cilantro, sour cream, jalapeños

directions

Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks.

Add the diced onion and cook until softened.

Drain any excess grease, then transfer the beef and onion mixture to the crockpot.

Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, beef broth, and tomato sauce.

Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 2 hours.

Break the spaghetti in half and add to the crockpot, stirring to submerge the noodles.

Cook on high for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.

Stir in the cream cheese and shredded cheddar until melted and fully incorporated.

Serve hot with your favorite taco toppings.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 6 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesInitial cook time: 2-4 hoursPasta cook time: 20-30 minutesTotal time: 2.5 to 4.5 hours

Variations

Swap ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter version.

Use Mexican blend or pepper jack cheese for extra spice.

Add black beans or corn for more texture and nutrition.

Make it vegetarian by using plant-based meat alternatives and vegetable broth.

storage/reheating

Store leftover Taco Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months in individual portions.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, short pasta like penne or rotini also works well.

Can I cook the pasta separately?

Yes, you can cook it on the stove and stir it in just before serving if preferred.

Is this dish spicy?

It has a mild kick from the taco seasoning and green chilies, but you can adjust the spice level to your liking.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, as long as your crockpot can accommodate the volume.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Omit the cheese and cream cheese, or use dairy-free alternatives.

What if I don’t have taco seasoning?

You can substitute with a mix of chili powder, cumin, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt.

Conclusion

Crockpot Taco Spaghetti is a flavorful, hearty dish that brings together the comfort of spaghetti with the zest of tacos—all with the ease of a slow cooker. Ideal for families, potlucks, or lazy evenings, it’s a simple way to enjoy bold, cheesy goodness with minimal effort. Give it a try and make taco night even more exciting.