If you’re craving a fun, comforting twist on Italian and Mexican flavors, this Taco Spaghetti Recipe hits all the right notes. Picture perfectly cooked spaghetti tossed with seasoned ground beef, zesty salsa, and melty cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses that create a savory, cheesy hug in every bite. It’s a surefire crowd-pleaser that’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but exciting enough to make your taste buds sing. Whether you’re feeding a family or want an easy dish to impress friends, this Taco Spaghetti Recipe brings a delicious fusion that’s as satisfying as it is unique.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but pack a big punch in flavor and texture. Each one plays a critical role in making this dish comforting and colorful—from the rich ground beef and vibrant salsa to the blend of cheeses that melt beautifully into the pasta.
- 8 oz spaghetti: The perfect pasta base to soak up all those delicious taco-inspired flavors.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides hearty, savory richness as the main protein.
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix: Adds authentic Mexican spices to elevate the dish immediately.
- 1/2 cup water: Helps the seasoning meld seamlessly into the meat mixture.
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained): Brings bright acidity and a subtle kick of heat.
- 1 cup salsa: Infuses the whole dish with fresh, zesty tomato flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharpness and gooey meltiness.
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Balances with creamy smoothness and mild flavor.
- 1/2 small onion (diced): Builds aromatic depth and sweetness when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): A must-have for that fragrant savory boost.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sizzling the aromatics and browning the beef beautifully.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to round out the flavors.
- Optional toppings: Sour cream, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, jalapeño slices to personalize every bite.
How to Make Taco Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. This means the pasta should be tender but still firm to the bite, so it holds up nicely once mixed with the sauce. Drain and set the noodles aside to be combined later.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, letting them soften and become translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. This step builds the foundation of the dish’s savory aroma and flavor.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Continue cooking until browned all over and no pink remains. After that, drain off any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily while retaining flavor.
Step 4: Add Seasoning and Simmer
Stir in the taco seasoning mix along with 1/2 cup water, allowing everything to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes. This lets the spices infuse the beef thoroughly. Then pour in the canned diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained) and the salsa, stirring to combine and create that signature zesty salsa-meets-pasta sauce.
Step 5: Toss with Spaghetti and Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet. Toss everything together until the noodles are fully coated in the flavorful taco mixture. Next, stir in half of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and velvety. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top, cover, and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to achieve that perfect gooey finish.
How to Serve Taco Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the Taco Spaghetti Recipe, try topping with a dollop of cool sour cream to mellow the spice, a sprinkle of vibrant green onions or freshly chopped cilantro for freshness, or a few jalapeño slices for extra heat and crunch. These garnishes brighten the dish and add textural contrast.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or tortilla chips for a playful crunch alongside the creamy pasta. You can also serve it with Mexican rice or roasted veggies to round out the meal while keeping fun, fresh flavors on the table.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Taco Spaghetti Recipe straight from the skillet for an inviting, homey feel, or plate it in colorful bowls with garnishes artistically sprinkled on top. For a party, turn it into mini casserole dishes for individual servings—comfort food with a festive twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your taco spaghetti, let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, they will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy the flavors again without fuss.
Freezing
This dish freezes well for longer storage. Portion the cooled taco spaghetti into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. It’s the perfect make-ahead meal when you want to avoid cooking from scratch.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals for even heating and to bring back that creamy cheesy texture.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground beef with other proteins?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative will work beautifully in this Taco Spaghetti Recipe. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
What if I don’t have taco seasoning mix?
No worries! You can mix your own with spices like chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper to replicate that familiar taste.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply swap the ground beef for hearty beans like black or pinto beans, or use plant-based crumbles for a meat-free option that still delivers on flavor and texture.
Is this dish spicy?
This Taco Spaghetti Recipe offers a mild to moderate spice level, thanks to the taco seasoning and green chilies, but you can easily adjust the heat by using milder salsa or skipping jalapeño garnishes.
What kind of cheese works best?
The recipe calls for cheddar and Monterey Jack because they melt smoothly and complement the spices. However, you can experiment with pepper jack for a spicy kick or a blend of your favorite Mexican cheeses.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly delightful about this Taco Spaghetti Recipe that makes it a standout comfort food mash-up. Its ease of preparation, crowd-pleasing flavors, and comforting warmth will have you reaching for it again and again. So don’t hesitate—grab those ingredients and bring this unique, tasty fusion to your table tonight. Your family and friends will thank you!
Print
Taco Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
Taco Spaghetti is a delicious fusion dish that combines the flavors of classic tacos with hearty spaghetti pasta. Ground beef seasoned with taco spices is simmered with diced tomatoes, salsa, and cheese to create a creamy, cheesy sauce that coats perfectly cooked spaghetti. This quick and easy stovetop meal is ideal for busy weeknights and is perfect for the whole family to enjoy, complete with optional toppings like sour cream and jalapeños for extra flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained)
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- Sour cream
- Sliced green onions
- Chopped cilantro
- Jalapeño slices
Instructions
- Cook Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to be mixed later with the sauce.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Brown Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess grease to avoid a greasy sauce.
- Add Seasoning and Simmer: Stir in the taco seasoning packet and 1/2 cup water. Let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the liquid to reduce slightly.
- Add Tomatoes and Salsa: Incorporate the diced tomatoes with green chilies and the salsa into the skillet, stirring to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Combine with Pasta: Reduce heat to low. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
- Melt Cheese: Stir in half of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, mixing until melted and creamy. Then sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top of the pasta.
- Final Melt: Cover the skillet and cook on low heat for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese on top is melted completely.
- Serve: Serve the taco spaghetti hot, topped with optional sour cream, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, and jalapeño slices if desired for added flavor and garnish.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives to make this dish lighter or vegetarian-friendly.
- For a spicier version, use hot salsa or add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce while simmering.
- Ensure you drain excess grease from the cooked beef to keep the dish from being too oily.
- This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted with additional veggies like bell peppers or corn for extra nutrition and texture.
