Taco spaghetti is a flavorful and creative fusion dish that combines the beloved flavors of tacos with the heartiness of spaghetti. This hearty, cheesy, and savory dish is perfect for a family dinner, a quick weeknight meal, or even a potluck gathering. With its taco-inspired seasoning, ground beef, and creamy cheesy sauce, taco spaghetti is sure to become a household favorite. Below is a complete guide to making this dish, serving suggestions, and more!
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Taco Spaghetti Recipe
This taco spaghetti recipe blends classic pasta with all the delicious ingredients of a taco. It’s simple to make, customizable, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or pairing it with a side, this dish will please everyone at the table.
Recipe Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make a delicious taco spaghetti:
- 1 lb ground beef – This will be the base of the sauce.
- 1 packet taco seasoning – Or use your own homemade taco seasoning.
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies – Adds a mild heat and flavor.
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce – For the rich, tomato base.
- 8 oz spaghetti – Regular or whole wheat pasta works great.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – For that cheesy finish.
- 1/2 cup sour cream – Adds a creamy richness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing.
- 1/2 cup chopped onion – Optional, for added flavor.
- 1/2 cup bell pepper – Adds sweetness and crunch.
- Salt and pepper – To taste.
- Optional toppings: Sliced olives, shredded lettuce, jalapeños, cilantro, or additional sour cream.
How to Make Taco Spaghetti
Making taco spaghetti is a breeze! Here’s how to prepare it step-by-step:
Cook the spaghetti: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5–7 minutes).
Season the beef: Once the beef is fully cooked, drain excess fat if necessary. Add the taco seasoning, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir to combine. Simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Combine with spaghetti: Add the cooked spaghetti to the beef mixture. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated with the taco meat sauce.
Add cheese and sour cream: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream until the cheese melts and everything is well combined. You can reserve a bit of cheese to sprinkle on top when serving.
Simmer and serve: Let the mixture simmer for a few more minutes. Once the cheese is fully melted and the dish is hot, remove from heat.
How to Serve Taco Spaghetti
Taco spaghetti can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few suggestions for making it even more delicious:
- With extra cheese: Top with a sprinkle of shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream.
- Add fresh toppings: Add sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice for a fresh twist.
- Serve with sides: Pair with a crisp side salad, cornbread, or Mexican rice to complete the meal.
Tips & Variations
Taco spaghetti is a versatile dish that can be easily customized. Here are some tips and variations you can try:
- Use different meats: Instead of ground beef, try ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a lighter version.
- Add veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach into the taco meat mixture for added nutrition.
- Make it spicy: If you like spice, add extra diced jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes when cooking the beef.
- Use different cheeses: Swap out cheddar for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
Proper Storage
If you have leftovers or want to prepare taco spaghetti in advance, storing it properly will help keep it fresh.
Refrigeration
- Let the taco spaghetti cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing
- Allow the taco spaghetti to cool completely before freezing.
- Store in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2-3 months.
- To thaw, simply place in the refrigerator overnight, or reheat in the microwave.
How to Reheat Mexican Spaghetti Recipe
Reheating taco spaghetti is easy. Here are a few methods:
- In the microwave: Place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.
- On the stove: Add a bit of water or extra tomato sauce to the taco spaghetti in a pan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot.
- In the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place taco spaghetti in an oven-safe dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
Tools and Equipment You’ll Need
To make taco spaghetti, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools and equipment:
Essential Kitchen Gear
- Large pot: For boiling the pasta.
- Large skillet or pan: To cook the ground beef and mix the ingredients.
- Colander: For draining the cooked spaghetti.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: To stir the meat mixture and pasta.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For measuring out ingredients.
More Pasta Recipes
If you love taco spaghetti, you might also enjoy these pasta dishes:
- Baked Ziti: A cheesy, comforting Italian dish with a rich tomato sauce.
- Spaghetti Carbonara: A creamy pasta dish with eggs, bacon, and cheese.
- Penne alla Vodka: A creamy tomato sauce pasta with a touch of vodka.
- Classic Spaghetti Bolognese: A traditional Italian pasta dish with a hearty meat sauce.
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Taco Spaghetti Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot For boiling the pasta.
- Large skillet or pan To cook the ground beef and mix the ingredients.
- Colander For draining the cooked spaghetti.
- Wooden spoon or spatula To stir the meat mixture and pasta.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons For measuring out ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion (optional)
- 1/2 cup bell pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti as per package instructions, then drain.
- In a large pan, cook the ground beef with taco seasoning until browned.
- Add tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in cooked spaghetti and top with cheese and sour cream. Simmer until the cheese melts.
- Serve with your favorite toppings.
Notes
- You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version of this recipe.
- Add fresh vegetables to the beef mixture for a healthier option.
WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?
If you’d like to save this taco spaghetti recipe for later, simply pin it to your favorite Pinterest board or share it with friends and family. Cooking this recipe is a breeze, and everyone will love it!
Nutrition Info
- Calories: 400-500 per serving (depending on ingredients and portion size)
- Protein: 25-30g per serving
- Carbs: 40-45g per serving
- Fat: 20-25g per serving
Extra Tips
- Make taco spaghetti ahead of time for a quick meal.
- Leftovers are delicious and can be reheated easily.
- You can adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer chilies or using a milder taco seasoning.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is taco spaghetti?
Taco spaghetti is a unique, fusion dish that combines the flavors of a taco with classic spaghetti. It features pasta mixed with ground beef, taco seasoning, tomato sauce, cheese, and sour cream, creating a flavorful, cheesy dish with a hint of Mexican spices. It’s a fun and easy way to enjoy two favorite cuisines in one meal!
2. Can I use a different type of meat in taco spaghetti?
Yes! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes like lentils or tofu for a vegetarian version. Each alternative will give the dish a slightly different taste and texture, but all are delicious options.
3. Can taco spaghetti be made in advance?
Yes, taco spaghetti is great for making ahead. You can prepare the entire dish and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat when you’re ready to serve.
4. Is taco spaghetti spicy?
The level of spiciness in taco spaghetti depends on the taco seasoning you use and any additional spicy ingredients you add. If you prefer a milder dish, choose a mild taco seasoning, or leave out the diced chilies. For a spicier version, you can add jalapeños, extra chili flakes, or use a spicier taco seasoning.
5. Can I freeze taco spaghetti?
Yes, taco spaghetti freezes well! After preparing the dish, allow it to cool to room temperature and store it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
6. Can I add vegetables to taco spaghetti?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a great way to boost the nutrition of taco spaghetti. Diced bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, or even corn can be added to the meat mixture for extra flavor and texture. These vegetables also help make the dish more colorful and vibrant!
7. How do I make taco spaghetti vegetarian or vegan?
To make taco spaghetti vegetarian or vegan, swap out the ground beef for plant-based ground meat like Beyond Meat or lentils. Use a vegan taco seasoning and replace the cheese and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives. With these substitutions, you can enjoy a plant-based version of taco spaghetti without sacrificing flavor!
8. Can I make taco spaghetti gluten-free?
Yes! Taco spaghetti can easily be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. Be sure to check that your taco seasoning and tomato sauce are also gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. Otherwise, the rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
9. How do I make taco spaghetti spicier?
If you like spice, you can increase the heat by adding fresh diced jalapeños, chili flakes, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. You could also opt for a spicier taco seasoning to give the dish more of a kick.
10. What can I serve with taco spaghetti?
Taco spaghetti pairs well with a variety of sides. You can serve it with a crisp side salad, Mexican rice, garlic bread, or even tortilla chips for some added crunch. For a fresher twist, try adding a dollop of guacamole or salsa on top.
Conclusion
Taco spaghetti is the perfect fusion of Mexican and Italian cuisine, offering the comfort of pasta combined with the bold flavors of tacos. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal for a busy weeknight or a dish to feed a crowd, taco spaghetti delivers on taste and ease. With its customizable ingredients and endless variations, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Enjoy making and sharing this fun and delicious dish with your family!