Taco spaghetti is a delightful one-pot fusion of Mexican and Italian cuisines, combining the bold flavors of taco seasoning, tomatoes with green chilies, and melted cheddar cheese with tender spaghetti. This quick, hearty meal is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a comfort dish with a twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an excellent option for a fast, flavorful dinner.
One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup makes this recipe a favorite for busy days.
Family-Friendly: Its cheesy, savory flavors appeal to kids and adults alike.
Customizable: You can adjust the spice level or add your favorite toppings for a personalized touch.
Comforting Fusion: Combines the best of Italian pasta and Mexican taco flavors in one dish.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
12 ounces spaghetti
1 pound lean ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, diced
1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
2 cups beef broth
1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies), undrained
1 cup tomato sauce
Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Sour cream (optional, for serving)
Directions
Cook the Spaghetti:
In a large pot, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook over medium-high heat, breaking it into crumbles, until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Add Seasoning and Liquids:
Stir in the taco seasoning until the beef is evenly coated. Add Rotel tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
Combine with Spaghetti:
Return the cooked spaghetti to the pot, tossing it with the beef and sauce mixture until evenly coated.
Add Cheese:
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the spaghetti. Stir until the cheese is melted and well blended into the dish.
Serve:
Remove the pot from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, if desired, and serve with sour cream on top if preferred.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
Spice Level: Use mild or hot Rotel to adjust the spice level. Add jalapeños for extra heat.
Protein Swap: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for the ground beef.
Vegetarian: Replace the beef with black beans or crumbled tofu and use vegetable broth.
Pasta Alternatives: Try whole wheat spaghetti or gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences.
Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if necessary.
Freezing: Freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Related Recipes:
FAQs
Can I make taco spaghetti in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
What can I serve with taco spaghetti?
Taco spaghetti pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.
Can I use homemade taco seasoning?
Absolutely! A homemade blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and oregano works perfectly.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add chopped jalapeños, extra chili powder, or use hot Rotel tomatoes to amp up the heat.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, penne, linguine, or any pasta you prefer can be substituted for spaghetti.
Conclusion
Taco spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food mashup that’s easy to make, loaded with flavor, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re serving it for a quick family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Try it with your favorite toppings, and enjoy a delicious fusion of cuisines in every bite.
📖 Recipe:
Print
Taco Spaghetti
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Taco spaghetti is a quick, flavorful one-pot meal that combines the zesty taste of tacos with tender spaghetti. Perfect for busy weeknights, this fusion dish is family-friendly, comforting, and endlessly customizable.
Ingredients
12 ounces spaghetti
1 pound lean ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies), undrained
1 cup tomato sauce
2 cups beef broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Sour cream (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti:
- Prepare spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Brown the Ground Beef:
- Add ground beef to the pot. Cook over medium-high heat, breaking it up, until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add Seasoning and Liquids:
- Stir in taco seasoning. Add Rotel tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix well and bring to a simmer.
- Combine with Spaghetti:
- Return cooked spaghetti to the pot, tossing it with the sauce and beef mixture.
- Add Cheese:
- Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top. Stir until cheese melts and is well incorporated.
- Serve:
- Garnish with cilantro and serve with sour cream if desired.
Notes
Adjust spice levels by choosing mild, medium, or hot Rotel tomatoes.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Use gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pot Meal
- Cuisine: Fusion (Mexican-Italian)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 450 kcal
