Taco Spaghetti is what happens when two beloved comfort foods collide in the most delicious way possible. This crowd-pleasing fusion dish brings together the zesty flavors of taco night with the familiar comfort of spaghetti, creating a meal that’s both exciting and satisfying.
Perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining, this one-pot wonder combines seasoned ground beef, vibrant Mexican-inspired spices, and tender pasta all smothered in melty cheese. It’s the kind of recipe that makes everyone at the table smile—familiar enough for picky eaters but flavorful enough for the food enthusiasts in your life.
Why You’ll Love This
- One-pot meal means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor absorption
- Ready in about 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Customizable with your favorite taco toppings for a personalized dinner experience
- Kid-friendly but still exciting for adults—no separate meals needed
- Leftovers reheat beautifully for an even easier next-day lunch
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- ¼ cup yellow onion, diced
- ¼ cup taco seasoning mix
- 8 oz spaghetti noodles, uncooked
- 1 can Rotel diced tomatoes with juice (10 oz)
- 3 cups water
- 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the meat is no longer pink and the onions turn soft and translucent, about 5-6 minutes.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and let it cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the can of Rotel tomatoes with all their juice – don't drain them!
- Break the spaghetti noodles in half if needed to fit in your skillet, then add them along with the 3 cups of water. Give everything a good stir to make sure the noodles are mostly submerged.
- Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Remove from heat and immediately sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the pasta. Stir everything together so the cheese melts and coats the spaghetti evenly.
- Top with the remaining cheese and fresh chopped cilantro. Let it sit for a minute or two to let the cheese melt, then serve hot right from the skillet.
Tips & Variations
- For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef
- Add a can of black beans or corn for extra texture and nutrition
- Spice it up with a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce for heat lovers
- Make it ahead: Prepare through step 5, refrigerate, then reheat and add cheese before serving
- For a creamier version, stir in 1/4 cup of cream cheese before adding the shredded cheese
- Use gluten-free spaghetti to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities
Serving Suggestions
Taco Spaghetti is hearty enough to stand alone as a complete meal, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with lime vinaigrette. For a more festive spread, serve with a basket of warm tortilla chips and fresh guacamole or pico de gallo on the side.
Set up a small toppings bar with extra cheese, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and hot sauce so everyone can customize their portion to taste—just like taco night!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- The pasta will continue to absorb liquid as it sits, so add a splash of broth when reheating if needed
- For best results, break the spaghetti into smaller pieces for easier eating and more even cooking
- The dish is ready when the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed
FAQs
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or an extra can of black beans, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, medium pasta shapes like rotini or penne work well in this recipe. Adjust cooking time according to package directions.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
How do I adjust the spice level for kids?
Use mild taco seasoning and skip the diced chilies in the tomatoes (use regular diced tomatoes instead). You can always add hot sauce to individual adult portions.
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