Taco Spaghetti

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Taco Spaghetti is a bold fusion dish that combines the comfort of spaghetti with the zesty, seasoned flair of classic tacos. Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, this one-pan meal is rich, cheesy, and packed with Tex-Mex flavor. With ground beef, taco seasoning, and melty cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings two favorites together in one delicious bite.

ingredients

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

spaghettiground beefoniongarlictaco seasoningdiced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)beef brothcheddar cheesemozzarella cheesefresh cilantro (optional for garnish)salt and pepper

directions

Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet or deep sauté pan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.

Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and beef broth. Mix well.

Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes to combine flavors.

Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan and toss until well coated in the sauce.

Sprinkle in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until melted and creamy.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired, and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4-6 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Add black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor.

Use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.

Top with crushed tortilla chips or sliced jalapeños for added crunch and heat.

Turn it into a baked casserole by transferring to a dish, topping with extra cheese, and baking until bubbly.

storage/reheating

Store Taco Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 2 months and thaw before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape like penne or rotini can work if you don’t have spaghetti.

Is this dish spicy?

It has mild spice from the taco seasoning and chilies, but you can adjust the heat to your liking.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely—use meatless crumbles or extra beans instead of ground beef.

What cheese works best?

A mix of cheddar and mozzarella gives a creamy, cheesy finish, but you can use any melty cheese you like.

Do I have to use beef broth?

Chicken or vegetable broth can be used as alternatives.

Can I add sour cream?

Yes, a dollop on top adds a nice creamy tang.

What kind of taco seasoning should I use?

Store-bought or homemade both work great; adjust seasoning to your taste.

Is it good for meal prep?

Yes, it reheats well and makes a great next-day lunch or dinner.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare it up to 2 days in advance and reheat before serving.

Does it work as a potluck dish?

Yes, it’s ideal for sharing and can be kept warm in a slow cooker.

Conclusion

Taco Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food mashup—easy to make, fun to eat, and full of bold flavors that bring the fiesta to your table. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this satisfying dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Print