Taco Spaghetti is a fun, flavorful, and comforting fusion dish that blends classic taco seasoning with creamy, cheesy spaghetti. It has all the bold flavors of tacos, but it comes together in one cozy pasta skillet. The beef cooks with onions, tomatoes, and taco spices, creating a savory base that coats every strand of pasta. Because this dish cooks quickly and uses simple ingredients, it is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, and meal prep. The melted cheese adds creamy richness, while the taco seasoning brings warm, familiar flavor. Every bite tastes like tacos and spaghetti combined into one satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Taco Spaghetti
The dish is bold and flavorful. The recipe cooks in one pot. The ingredients are simple and affordable. The sauce becomes creamy and comforting. The pasta absorbs all the taco flavors. Kids enjoy it. Adults love it. It reheats well. In addition, it feels like a fun twist on classic comfort food.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
You should try this recipe if you want a fast and satisfying dinner that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. The pasta cooks directly in the sauce, which means everything blends beautifully. The dish is easy to customize with different toppings or protein choices. Because it is hearty and filling, it works well as a complete family meal. It also tastes even better the next day, making it great for leftovers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
3 cups beef broth
12 ounces spaghetti, broken in half
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded Monterey Jack
½ teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
Optional Add-Ins
Corn
Black beans
Jalapeños
Green onions
Sour cream
Fresh cilantro
How to Make This Taco Spaghetti (Detailed)
1. Cook the Beef
Heat a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add ground beef. Break it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the Aromatics
Stir in the diced onion. Cook until softened. Add the garlic. Cook for one minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Seasoning and Tomatoes
Sprinkle in the taco seasoning. Stir to coat the beef. Add Rotel tomatoes and tomato sauce. Mix until everything is combined.
4. Add the Broth and Pasta
Pour in the beef broth. Bring the mixture to a light boil. Add the spaghetti. Stir so the pasta does not stick together.
5. Cook Until Tender
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for 12–14 minutes. Stir occasionally. Continue until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
6. Add the Cheese
Turn off the heat. Add cheddar and Monterey Jack. Stir until melted and creamy.
7. Garnish and Serve
Adjust salt and pepper. Add green onions, sour cream, or cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy.
Nutritional Information (Estimated per serving)
Calories: 480
Fat: 20g
Carbs: 52g
Protein: 28g
Sodium: 900mg
Fiber: 4g
Tips for the Best Taco Spaghetti (Detailed)
Break the spaghetti in half so it cooks evenly. Stir the pasta often to prevent sticking. Use Rotel for extra flavor and a little heat. Add more broth if the pasta absorbs liquid too quickly. Choose freshly shredded cheese for a smoother sauce. Adjust taco seasoning based on your preferred spice level. Add toppings like sour cream or cilantro for freshness. Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving so it thickens.
Variations & Substitutions
Use ground turkey for a lighter version. Add black beans or corn for extra texture. Replace spaghetti with penne or shells. Use pepper jack cheese for more heat. Add cream cheese for an even creamier sauce. Replace beef broth with chicken broth. Swap Rotel for salsa if needed.
What to Serve with Taco Spaghetti
Serve with Mexican corn salad, simple green salad, or garlic bread. Pair with tortilla chips, salsa, or guacamole. Add a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It also works well with cornbread or roasted peppers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not overcook the pasta or it may become mushy. Avoid adding too much salt early because taco seasoning already contains salt. Do not skip stirring or the spaghetti may stick. Avoid using pre-shredded cheese because it melts less smoothly. Do not use too little broth or the pasta may dry out.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
Taco Spaghetti is a bold, creamy, and satisfying fusion dish that brings together the best parts of tacos and pasta. It cooks quickly, tastes delicious, and uses budget-friendly ingredients. Whether you serve it for family dinners, meal prep, or busy weeknights, this dish always delivers comfort and flavor. It is a recipe you will want to make again and again.
10 Recipe FAQ’s
1. Can I make this spicy? Yes, add jalapeños or spicy Rotel.
2. Can I use different pasta? Yes, short pasta works well.
3. Can I add cream cheese? Yes, it makes the sauce extra creamy.
4. Can I use leftover taco meat? Yes, it works perfectly.
5. Why is my pasta sticking? Stir regularly.
6. Can I double the recipe? Yes, double all ingredients evenly.
7. Can I use chicken instead of beef? Yes, ground chicken cooks well.
8. Do I need Rotel? No, you can use diced tomatoes plus green chilies.
9. Can I make it gluten-free? Use gluten-free spaghetti.
10. How do I thicken the sauce? Let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes.