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
Scale
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.
