Best-Ever Taco Spaghetti Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Taco Spaghetti is a perfect blend of comfort food and bold taco flavors. It’s quick to make, filling, and satisfying. The pasta absorbs all the delicious taco seasoning, making every bite a burst of flavor. It’s also customizable, so you can adjust the heat level to suit your taste. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or looking for a fun dish to bring to a potluck, Taco Spaghetti is sure to please. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 onion, chopped

• 1 packet taco seasoning

• 8 oz spaghetti

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

• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 cup water

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Sour cream, for serving (optional)

• Sliced green onions, for garnish (optional)

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

Directions

1. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. While the spaghetti is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.

3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

4. Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, and water. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing it to coat in the sauce mixture. Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and well combined.

6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

7. Serve hot with optional toppings like sour cream and sliced green onions for garnish.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people, depending on portion size.

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add veggies: Toss in some bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.

• Swap the meat: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian crumbles for a lighter alternative.

• Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a bit of hot sauce to spice things up.

• Different cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or Monterey Jack, to vary the flavor profile.

• Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or a bit of heavy cream to make the sauce extra creamy and rich.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to prevent the pasta from drying out. You may need to add extra cheese for creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for a leaner option. It will still absorb the taco seasoning well, giving you that savory flavor.

Can I make Taco Spaghetti ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Taco Spaghetti ahead of time. Just follow the recipe up until the step where you mix in the spaghetti, then store it in the fridge. Reheat before serving and add cheese when you're ready to eat.

Is Taco Spaghetti gluten-free?

This recipe is not gluten-free because it uses regular spaghetti. To make it gluten-free, you can substitute with gluten-free pasta.

Can I freeze Taco Spaghetti?

Yes, you can freeze Taco Spaghetti. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat it in the microwave or oven before serving.

What other toppings can I use on Taco Spaghetti?

Some great topping options include chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced olives, or even a drizzle of salsa.

Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Yes, feel free to use different cheeses based on your preference. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack would all be great alternatives.

Is Taco Spaghetti spicy?

The level of spice depends on the taco seasoning you use. If you like it mild, choose a mild taco seasoning. For extra heat, opt for a spicy taco seasoning or add fresh jalapeños.

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, you can make Taco Spaghetti in a slow cooker. Brown the meat and onions, then add the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and water. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, then add the cooked pasta and cheese just before serving.

Can I make Taco Spaghetti without meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute the meat with black beans, vegetarian crumbles, or just add more veggies to make it a vegetarian meal.

How can I make Taco Spaghetti less greasy?

To reduce the grease, you can drain the meat thoroughly after cooking it. You can also use lean ground beef or ground turkey as an alternative.

Conclusion

Taco Spaghetti is a fun and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its easy preparation, bold flavors, and cheese-filled goodness, this recipe is bound to be a hit with your family and friends. It’s customizable, so you can make it as mild or as spicy as you like, and it’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner. Whether you serve it with traditional taco toppings or add your own twist, Taco Spaghetti is sure to bring excitement to your dinner table!

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