If you’re craving a meal that combines the spirited flavors of Mexican cuisine with the comforting familiarity of pasta, this Taco Spaghetti Recipe is the perfect answer. It’s a vibrant, cheesy, and utterly satisfying dish that brings together ground beef seasoned with taco spices, tender spaghetti noodles, and a luscious blend of cheeses. Every bite bursts with boldness and warmth, making it an ideal weeknight dinner that feels special but is incredibly easy to whip up. Trust me, this Taco Spaghetti Recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen for its effortless preparation and crowd-pleasing taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of this recipe’s ingredients — each one plays a crucial role in creating the rich layers of flavor and textures that make this Taco Spaghetti Recipe so irresistible. From the savory ground beef to the melty cheeses, everything contributes something special.
- 1 pound ground beef: Adds hearty protein and a savory base that anchors the dish beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to sauté onions and garlic, unlocking their sweet and aromatic qualities.
- 1 small yellow onion (diced): Provides a gentle sweetness and tender texture.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Delivers a pungent, mouthwatering hint of flavor.
- 1 packet taco seasoning: The secret to that unmistakable taco flavor that ties everything together.
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained): Adds juiciness and a pleasant kick of spice.
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce: Brings a rich tomato base that melds all flavors smoothly.
- 2 cups water: Helps cook the pasta directly in the spiced sauce for maximum flavor absorption.
- 8 ounces uncooked spaghetti: The hearty pasta that makes this dish filling and fun to eat.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharpness and creaminess when melted in.
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Provides a mild, buttery melt that balances the cheddar.
- Chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños for garnish (optional): Freshness and heat to brighten and personalize your plate.
How to Make Taco Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Brown the Beef
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet or deep sauté pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it softens and becomes fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step unlocks the onion’s natural sweetness, which is the perfect foundation for the bold taco flavors. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to release its aromatic powers. Add the ground beef and cook it thoroughly until browned, breaking it apart with your spoon as it cooks. Once browned, don’t forget to drain any excess fat — this keeps your dish from feeling greasy and lets the spices shine.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies (don’t drain!), tomato sauce, and water right into the skillet with the cooked beef. These ingredients combine to create a vibrant, richly flavored sauce that tastes just like your favorite taco filling but in a cozy pasta dish. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil to get everything bubbling and mingling beautifully.
Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti in the Sauce
Break the spaghetti noodles in half to make them easier to handle and stir them directly into the boiling sauce. This one-pot method is pure magic — the pasta cooks right in all those flavorful juices, soaking up the taco goodness. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, cover the skillet, and cook for 15 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to keep the noodles from sticking to the pan or clumping together. When the pasta is tender, it’s time for the next delicious step.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses for Creamy Perfection
Remove the lid and sprinkle in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Stir everything well until the cheeses melt into the spiced sauce, forming a creamy, cheesy coating that clings to every strand of spaghetti. This is where the dish becomes truly irresistible — gooey, cheesy, and full of bold flavor all at once.
How to Serve Taco Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Taco Spaghetti Recipe visually and flavor-wise, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top for a burst of vibrant green and a fresh herbal note. For those who love heat, add thinly sliced jalapeños — their spicy kick adds excitement to every bite. Both garnishes bring color, texture, and complementary flavors that make the dish pop on your plate and in your mouth.
Side Dishes
This dish stands brilliantly on its own, but pairing it with simple Mexican-inspired sides can create a complete fiesta. Consider serving with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy lime vinaigrette or some warm tortilla chips with guacamole and salsa for crunchy contrast. A side of Mexican street corn or black beans also works wonderfully to round out the meal and bring extra satisfaction.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to surprise your guests or family members, consider serving this Taco Spaghetti Recipe in individual bowls topped with a dollop of sour cream and a squeeze of fresh lime. You can also bake it in a casserole dish with a sprinkle of extra cheese on top, allowing it to turn golden and bubbly under the broiler for a fun twist. Another idea is scooping it into crispy tortilla bowls or even stuffing it inside bell peppers and baking for a creative presentation that delights both eyes and taste buds.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Taco Spaghetti Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day, making leftovers just as delicious—if not more—than the first serving. Just make sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain the best texture and taste.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish if you want to save it for longer. Portion the Taco Spaghetti into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When freezing, avoid adding fresh garnishes like cilantro or jalapeños, as they won’t freeze well. Simply add those fresh elements when you reheat and serve.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge if possible, then warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between until piping hot and creamy again. Adding a little extra cheese during reheating keeps it just as gooey and irresistible.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative that still pairs perfectly with the taco seasoning and sauce. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and drain any excess liquid for the best texture.
Is there a vegetarian version of the Taco Spaghetti Recipe?
Yes! You can swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils. Adjust seasoning and cooking times slightly, and you’ll have a flavorful vegetarian-friendly version that still captures all the taco-inspired goodness.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
For sure! Add cayenne pepper to the taco seasoning or choose hot diced tomatoes with green chilies. You can also increase the amount of sliced jalapeños or add a dash of hot sauce after cooking for extra heat.
What kind of cheese works best for this recipe?
The combination of sharp cheddar and mild Monterey Jack creates the ideal balance of bold flavor and creamy meltiness. However, feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like mozzarella or a Mexican cheese blend for a slightly different but just as delicious twist.
Can I prepare any steps ahead of time?
You can chop the onion and garlic in advance and even pre-mix the taco seasoning with the beef. However, cooking the pasta with the sauce is best done fresh to achieve the perfect texture and flavor absorption.
Final Thoughts
This Taco Spaghetti Recipe is a delightful mashup that brings the best of two worlds—comforting pasta and zesty taco flavors—straight to your dinner table. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple that everyone asks for again and again. Happy cooking!
Print
Taco Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
This Taco Spaghetti recipe is a flavorful, one-pot dish combining the zest of taco seasoning with the comfort of cheesy spaghetti. Ground beef, tomatoes, and two types of cheese create a rich and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare on the stovetop. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it brings together Mexican and American flavors with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups water
Pasta and Cheese
- 8 ounces uncooked spaghetti
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Garnishes (Optional)
- Chopped cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños
Instructions
- Prepare Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or deep sauté pan over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to release its flavor.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks to ensure even cooking. Drain any excess fat from the pan.
- Add Seasonings and Liquids: Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies (including the juice), tomato sauce, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.
- Cook the Pasta: Break the spaghetti noodles in half and stir them into the boiling mixture. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and let cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Incorporate Cheese: Remove the lid and stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and creamy, giving the dish a luscious texture.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños if desired for an extra fresh and spicy touch. Serve the taco spaghetti immediately while hot.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a leaner option.
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use hot diced tomatoes with chilies.
- Leftovers store well and taste even better the next day as flavors continue to meld.
