Taco Spaghetti brings together the best of two worlds—classic spaghetti and vibrant taco flavors. This dish is perfect for family dinners, game nights, or casual gatherings. With its creamy sauce and hearty ingredients, Taco Spaghetti is an instant crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Sauce
- For the Pasta
- For Topping
- How to Make Taco Spaghetti
- Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
- Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
- Step 3: Brown the Meat
- Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
- Step 5: Combine with Pasta
- Step 6: Serve Your Dish
- How to Serve Taco Spaghetti
- With Fresh Toppings
- As a Casserole
- Accompanied by Salad
- How to Perfect Taco Spaghetti
- Best Side Dishes for Taco Spaghetti
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Taco Spaghetti
- Reheating Taco Spaghetti
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Taco Spaghetti?
- Can I use turkey instead of beef for Taco Spaghetti?
- How do I customize my Taco Spaghetti?
- How do I make Taco Spaghetti gluten-free?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Fusion: The blend of taco spices with creamy cheese creates a mouthwatering experience.
- Customizable Ingredients: Use ground beef, turkey, or plant-based crumbles based on your preference.
- Kid-Friendly: This recipe appeals to both kids and adults, making it a great choice for family meals.
- One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes to wash means more time enjoying your meal!
Tools and Preparation
To make Taco Spaghetti, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make your cooking process smoother and faster.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Pot for boiling spaghetti
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables and cooking the meat evenly.
- Pot for boiling spaghetti: Ensures your pasta cooks perfectly al dente.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware.
Ingredients
This fusion dish combines classic spaghetti noodles with the bold, zesty flavors of tacos! A creamy, cheesy sauce coats the noodles and is loaded with seasoned beef, tomatoes, and Mexican spices.
For the Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1/2 onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (or turkey, plant-based crumbles)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 10 oz diced tomatoes with green chiles
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 3 oz cream cheese (softened)
For the Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti (cooked al dente)
For Topping
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Mexican blend, etc.)
- Cilantro for garnish (optional)
How to Make Taco Spaghetti
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Step 3: Brown the Meat
Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
Stir in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chiles, beef broth, tomato paste, and softened cream cheese. Cook for 2-3 minutes until cream cheese melts completely.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
Remove the skillet from heat. Toss the cooked spaghetti into the sauce along with shredded cheese. Mix well until all noodles are fully coated.
Step 6: Serve Your Dish
Garnish with cilantro if desired. Serve immediately for a delicious meal everyone will love!
How to Serve Taco Spaghetti
Taco Spaghetti is a fun and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or having a cozy family meal, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
With Fresh Toppings
- Sour Cream: Add a dollop of sour cream to bring creaminess and balance the spices.
- Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle fresh green onions for a crunchy texture and mild onion flavor.
- Sliced Jalapeños: For those who love heat, sliced jalapeños add a spicy kick.
As a Casserole
- Baked Taco Spaghetti: After mixing the ingredients, transfer them to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake until bubbly for a comforting casserole version.
- Layered Dish: Create layers of Taco Spaghetti with tortilla chips in between for added crunch.
Accompanied by Salad
- Simple Garden Salad: Pair with a light garden salad dressed in vinaigrette for freshness.
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: A flavorful corn salad brings sweetness and complements the taco flavors beautifully.
How to Perfect Taco Spaghetti
To ensure your Taco Spaghetti turns out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and quality ground beef to enhance flavor.
- Customize Seasoning: Adjust the taco seasoning to your taste; you can add more spices like cumin or chili powder for an extra kick.
- Cream Cheese Alternatives: If you prefer a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for creaminess without the calories.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook spaghetti al dente so it holds its texture when mixed with the sauce.
Best Side Dishes for Taco Spaghetti
Complementing your main dish with side dishes can create a more satisfying meal. Here are some great options to serve alongside Taco Spaghetti.
- Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of Taco Spaghetti.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread adds a delightful contrast and is easy to prepare alongside your main dish.
- Refried Beans: This classic Mexican side provides protein and pairs nicely with pasta.
- Mexican Rice: Flavorful rice seasoned with cilantro and lime makes an excellent accompaniment.
- Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomato salsa brightens up the plate and adds freshness.
- Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with salsa offer a fun appetizer before the main course.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Taco Spaghetti, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the seasoning: Not using taco seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Always add taco seasoning for that authentic taste.
- Overcooking the noodles: Cooking spaghetti too long will make it mushy. Aim for al dente for the perfect texture in your dish.
- Neglecting cream cheese: Forgetting cream cheese can result in a less creamy sauce. Make sure to include it for a rich flavor.
- Not draining excess fat: Leaving excess fat from the beef can make the dish greasy. Drain thoroughly after cooking the meat.
- Rushing the mixing process: Hurrying through mixing can lead to uneven coating of sauce on noodles. Take your time to ensure everything is well combined.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Taco Spaghetti in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Taco Spaghetti
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It can be kept frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Taco Spaghetti
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Taco Spaghetti:
What is Taco Spaghetti?
Taco Spaghetti is a delicious fusion dish combining classic spaghetti with taco flavors, featuring seasoned beef and creamy sauce.
Can I use turkey instead of beef for Taco Spaghetti?
Yes, ground turkey or even plant-based crumbles work well as substitutes for ground beef in this recipe.
How do I customize my Taco Spaghetti?
You can add vegetables like bell peppers or corn, or use different types of cheese based on your preference.
How do I make Taco Spaghetti gluten-free?
Use gluten-free spaghetti and check that all other ingredients are gluten-free to enjoy this dish without gluten.
Final Thoughts
Taco Spaghetti offers a delightful twist on traditional spaghetti, blending comforting pasta with zesty taco flavors. It’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients, making it a versatile option for any meal. Try it today and discover how satisfying and fun this dish can be!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Taco Spaghetti
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Taco Spaghetti is a delightful fusion that combines the comforting texture of classic spaghetti with the bold flavors of tacos. This one-pot wonder is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or casual get-togethers. With its creamy cheese sauce and savory meat, Taco Spaghetti is sure to please both kids and adults alike. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this flavorful dish using customizable ingredients, making it a versatile favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or turkey, plant-based crumbles)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- ½ onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 10 oz diced tomatoes with green chiles
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 3 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion for about 3-4 minutes until soft, then add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, and softened cream cheese. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined.
- Combine the cooked spaghetti with the sauce and mix in shredded cheese until melted.
- Serve hot with optional toppings like cilantro or sour cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
