If you are craving a dish that combines the comforting textures of pasta with the bold, zesty flavors of a taco, then you have to try this incredible Taco Spaghetti Recipe. It’s a wonderfully inventive twist on two favorites that brings together seasoned ground beef, melty cheeses, and a rich, savory sauce all tossed with perfectly cooked spaghetti. Whether you’re feeding your family a quick weeknight dinner or need a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s both fun and familiar, this Taco Spaghetti Recipe is a guaranteed winner that feels like a cozy hug in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Taco Spaghetti Recipe lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role: from the tender pasta providing the perfect base to the combination of cheeses that create a luscious finish with a pop of color and richness.
- 8 ounces spaghetti: Use regular or gluten-free pasta to suit your preference, cooked al dente for just the right bite.
- 1 pound ground beef: This is the protein powerhouse giving the dish hearty, meaty depth.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds a gentle sweetness that balances the spices beautifully.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses a warm, aromatic base that makes every bite irresistible.
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade): Essential for that authentic taco flavor blast.
- 1 cup beef broth: Keeps the meat juicy and helps develop a rich, savory sauce.
- 1 cup tomato sauce: Brings a smooth, tangy element that ties the dish together.
- ½ cup salsa: Adds brightness and a little zing to elevate the overall taste.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, a must-have for that comforting cheesy layer.
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Milder cheese that melts perfectly to blend with the cheddar.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the onions and garlic to golden perfection.
- Optional toppings: Chopped cilantro, sour cream, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.
How to Make Taco Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your spaghetti in salted boiling water until it reaches that wonderful al dente texture where it’s tender but still has a little bite. This is key because the pasta will finish cooking in the sauce, soaking up all those delicious flavors without becoming mushy.
Step 2: Prepare the Base
In a large skillet, heat up your olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and let it soften for a couple of minutes; this sweetness builds the foundation for the taste. Then add the minced garlic for just 30 seconds to infuse the skillet with that irresistible aroma.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. You want it nicely browned and flavorful, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, go ahead and drain it to keep the dish from getting greasy.
Step 4: Add Seasonings and Liquids
Sprinkle in your taco seasoning and stir it into the beef mixture to coat every bit with that signature spice blend. Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and salsa to build a rich, flavorful sauce. Reduce the heat slightly and let it all simmer for about 5 minutes so those flavors mesh beautifully.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese
It’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet and toss it around to coat each strand with that savory sauce. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top. Cover the pan, reduce the heat to low, and let it sit for 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese melts into a gooey, irresistible layer.
How to Serve Taco Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
The way you dress up your Taco Spaghetti Recipe can take it from delicious to extraordinary. Fresh chopped cilantro adds a burst of green freshness, while dollops of sour cream bring cool creaminess. Add diced tomatoes for a juicy pop and sliced jalapeños if you love a little kick to balance the melted cheese.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but you can round out your meal with simple sides like a crisp green salad, corn on the cob, or even some classic tortilla chips for crunch. Anything fresh will complement the warm, cheesy pasta perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Make it festive by serving Taco Spaghetti Recipe in individual bowls topped with an extra sprinkle of cheese and a wedge of lime for squeezing on top. For a family-style approach, keep it all in the skillet at the table and let everyone customize with their favorite toppings. It’s casual, fun, and great for sharing stories over dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers — and let’s be honest, that’s likely — store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even tastier next-day meal.
Freezing
You can freeze Taco Spaghetti Recipe, but keep in mind the texture of the pasta may change slightly. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and it will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave to avoid drying out. Add a splash of beef broth or water to revive the sauciness and stir occasionally for even warming.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative that works perfectly with the taco seasoning and sauces in this recipe.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free spaghetti and ensure the taco seasoning you select doesn’t contain gluten, this dish fits a gluten-free diet beautifully.
How spicy is the Taco Spaghetti Recipe?
The spice level depends on the taco seasoning and salsa you choose. For more heat, add sliced jalapeños or spicy salsa; for a milder dish, use a mild salsa and seasoning.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the ground beef for plant-based meat crumbles or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.
What cheese works best in this dish?
The combination of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses melts wonderfully and adds a nice balance of sharpness and creaminess, but feel free to experiment with your favorites!
Final Thoughts
This Taco Spaghetti Recipe is a delightful, comforting combination that brings bold taco flavors into the pasta world, making weeknight dinners exciting and satisfying. I encourage you to give it a try—you might find it becoming one of your go-to dishes when you crave something simple, cheesy, and deeply delicious. Trust me, once you experience this tasting party in a skillet, it’s sure to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen.
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: Gluten Free
Description
Taco Spaghetti is a flavorful fusion recipe combining classic Mexican taco flavors with comforting Italian pasta. Ground beef is cooked with onions, garlic, and taco seasoning, then simmered in a savory tomato sauce with salsa. Tossed with al dente spaghetti and topped with melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, this easy-to-make dish is perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner. Optional toppings like cilantro, sour cream, and jalapeños add customizable heat and freshness.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces spaghetti
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- ½ cup salsa
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Optional Toppings
- Chopped cilantro
- Sour cream
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced jalapeños
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add Seasonings and Simmer: Stir in the taco seasoning, beef broth, tomato sauce, and salsa. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Combine with Pasta and Melt Cheese: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss gently to coat the noodles in the sauce. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the top. Cover the skillet, reduce heat to low, and let sit for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve with Toppings: Serve the taco spaghetti hot, topped with optional chopped cilantro, sour cream, diced tomatoes, and sliced jalapeños for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- For extra heat, use spicy salsa or add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly option.
- Leftovers reheat well and make a delicious next-day lunch.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure taco seasoning is gluten-free.
