Taco Spaghetti

🌮 Taco Spaghetti – A Tex-Mex Pasta Fusion the Whole Family Will Love

Taco Spaghetti is the perfect weeknight dinner that combines the bold flavors of tacos with the comfort of spaghetti. This one-pot recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor – making it a family favorite and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

🕒 Prep Time: 10 mins

🍳 Cook Time: 20 mins

🍽️ Total Time: 30 mins

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Servings: 4–6

🔥 Calories: ~475 kcal per serving

📝 Ingredients

• 8 oz (225g) spaghetti

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or turkey)

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade – see below)

• 1 cup beef broth or water

• 1 cup salsa (chunky or smooth, depending on texture preference)

• 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, green onions, black olives

🍝 Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil spaghetti in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

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

Step 3: Add Onion & Garlic

Add diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 4: Season It Up

Stir in taco seasoning, broth, salsa, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Mix everything well.

Step 5: Simmer

Let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and the sauce to thicken.

Step 6: Mix in the Pasta

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss until all the noodles are coated in the taco mixture.

Step 7: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts.

Step 8: Serve

Top with your favorite taco toppings and serve hot!

🌶️ Homemade Taco Seasoning

Skip the packet! Mix the following for a healthier option:

• 1 tsp chili powder

• ½ tsp cumin

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• ¼ tsp garlic powder

• ¼ tsp onion powder

• Salt & pepper to taste

🧠 Taco Spaghetti FAQ

❓Can I make Taco Spaghetti ahead of time?

Yes! Taco Spaghetti stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth or water.

❓Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely. Penne, rotini, or linguine work great if you don’t have spaghetti on hand.

❓Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes. Substitute ground beef with plant-based ground meat, lentils, or black beans.

❓How do I make it spicier?

Use hot salsa, add crushed red pepper flakes, or toss in diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers.

❓Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Definitely! The mild taco seasoning and cheesy pasta make it a hit with kids. You can tone down the spice if needed.

📦 Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat on the stove.

💡 Pro Tips

• Use freshly grated cheese – it melts better than pre-shredded.

• Add black beans or corn for a heartier dish.

• Want a one-pot meal? Break spaghetti in half and cook it directly in the sauce with 2 extra cups of broth.