If you love the vibrant flavors of tacos and crave the comforting hug of pasta, you are in for a real treat with this Taco Spaghetti Recipe. This dish brilliantly combines the spicy, savory goodness of taco seasoning with creamy, cheesy spaghetti, making it a delightful twist on two classic favorites. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or simply craving something that’s quick, hearty, and packed with flavor, this Taco Spaghetti Recipe hits all the right notes with its perfect blend of textures, colors, and mouthwatering tastes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this Taco Spaghetti Recipe. Each item plays an essential role, from the tender pasta that forms a satisfying base to the flavorful blend of taco seasonings and cheese that create an irresistible sauce.
- 8 ounces uncooked spaghetti noodles: Choose good-quality pasta for the perfect al dente bite that holds up under the sauce.
- 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef: Provides the hearty protein punch without excessive grease.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps brown the beef evenly and adds a subtle richness.
- 1 can fire-roasted Rotel (with green chilis): This adds a smoky, slightly spicy kick plus vibrant color.
- 2 tbsp tomato paste: Concentrates tomato flavor and thickens the sauce beautifully.
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend): Brings the signature taco flavors of cumin, chili powder, and garlic.
- 2 cups beef broth: Adds moisture and depth to the sauce, keeping it silky.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Creates creamy richness that balances the spicy seasonings perfectly.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Provides sharp, melty goodness that makes every forkful irresistible.
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Adds a mild creaminess that complements the cheddar.
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro: Brightens the dish with fresh herbal notes.
- 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional): For those who love extra heat and a crunchy texture boost.
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste): Enhances all the other flavors for a perfectly balanced dish.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Adds just the right hint of warmth and spice.
How to Make Taco Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil—salting the water is crucial because it seasons the pasta from within. Cook your spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions until they’re perfectly al dente; this means the noodles will still have a slight bite, which is ideal for this recipe. Once cooked, drain the noodles well and set them aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef and cook it until nicely browned, breaking the meat apart with a spatula as it cooks. This step not only develops flavor but also ensures there’s no excess grease diluting the sauce later on. Drain off any fat if necessary to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
Step 3: Build the Taco Flavors
Now stir in the taco seasoning, tomato paste, and the fire-roasted Rotel with green chilis. Cook everything together for about 2 minutes to allow these bold flavors to blend and intensify. This is where the magic starts to happen, as the tomato paste and Rotel combine with the spices to create that signature taco taste you love.
Step 4: Simmer with Broth
Add the beef broth to the skillet and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 5 minutes so the sauce thickens just enough to coat the pasta perfectly. This step helps the flavors marry and concentrate, ensuring the dish is bursting with savory goodness.
Step 5: Creamy Indulgence
Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream. This addition mellows out any sharpness from the seasonings and creates a luscious creaminess that clings to every strand of spaghetti. Then toss in the cooked pasta, giving it a good mix so every noodle is beautifully coated with that flavorful sauce.
Step 6: Cheese It Up
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the top of your pasta. Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt for 2 to 3 minutes until gooey and irresistible. This cheesy layer adds a melty, indulgent finish that takes your Taco Spaghetti Recipe to absolute comfort food heaven.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish off by garnishing with fresh chopped cilantro and, if you love a bit of heat, sliced jalapeños. These fresh toppings provide a delightful contrast to the rich and creamy pasta, making your Taco Spaghetti Recipe look as good as it tastes.
How to Serve Taco Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes really elevate this dish. Cilantro adds fragrant freshness, while sliced jalapeños deliver a spicy crunch. You can also sprinkle a little extra cheese, a squeeze of lime for brightness, or dollops of sour cream if you want to add creaminess beyond the sauce.
Side Dishes
Since Taco Spaghetti is a hearty meal on its own, lighter sides like a crisp garden salad, Mexican street corn (elote), or a simple avocado and tomato salsa work perfectly. These sides add balancing freshness and texture, making the meal complete without overwhelming your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Taco Spaghetti in individual mini cast iron skillets or colorful bowls to keep the cheese warm. You can also top it with crushed tortilla chips for an added taco-inspired crunch. Presentation that highlights the vivid colors of this dish makes it even more inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Taco Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually continue to meld and improve slightly overnight, making your next meal just as delicious. Be sure to cool it completely before storing to keep it fresh.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to prepare it ahead. Transfer cooled Taco Spaghetti into freezer-friendly containers, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. Alternatively, microwave covered in short increments, stirring in between to heat evenly and keep that creamy texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work wonderfully in the Taco Spaghetti Recipe and can be swapped with no issues.
Is there a vegetarian version of this?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or crumbled tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a hearty vegetarian Taco Spaghetti Recipe.
Can I make the taco seasoning from scratch?
Definitely! Mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper to create your own custom taco seasoning mix for a fresher, customizable flavor.
How spicy is this dish? Can I adjust the heat?
You control the spice level easily by choosing whether to include jalapeños, opting for mild or hot taco seasoning, and adjusting the amount of chili flakes in your blend.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
For sure! Feel free to swap cheddar and Monterey Jack with your favorite melts like mozzarella, Colby, or pepper jack to tailor the cheesy component to your taste.
Final Thoughts
This Taco Spaghetti Recipe is truly one of those knockout dishes that simplify dinnertime while packing bold, comforting flavors into every bite. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual get-togethers, or whenever you crave a cozy meal with a spicy twist. Give it a try—you might just find it becoming a beloved staple 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 Fusion
Description
A delicious and comforting Taco Spaghetti recipe that combines the flavors of a classic taco with hearty spaghetti noodles. Quick to prepare in just 30 minutes, this dish features lean ground beef cooked with taco seasoning and fire-roasted Rotel, simmered in beef broth and creamy heavy cream, then tossed with spaghetti and topped with melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Garnished with fresh cilantro and optional jalapeños, this meal is perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Spaghetti
- 8 ounces uncooked spaghetti noodles
Meat and Seasonings
- 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
Sauce
- 1 can fire-roasted Rotel (with green chilis)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
Cheese and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
- Brown the ground beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it is fully browned. Drain any excess grease as needed.
- Add seasonings and Rotel: Stir in the taco seasoning, tomato paste, and the can of fire-roasted Rotel with green chilis. Cook for about 2 minutes so the flavors can meld together well.
- Simmer with beef broth: Pour in the beef broth, bring the mixture to a simmer, and let it cook for 5 minutes to slightly thicken the sauce.
- Add cream and combine: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Add the cooked spaghetti noodles back into the skillet and toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Melt the cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the top of the spaghetti mixture. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the cover, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and sliced jalapeños if desired. Serve the taco spaghetti hot and enjoy a flavorful fusion of Mexican and Italian cuisine.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of jalapeño to control the heat level according to your preference.
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and keep the dish healthier.
- You can substitute beef broth with chicken or vegetable broth if preferred.
- For a vegetarian version, replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
