Description
This Easy Taco Spaghetti recipe brings together the bold flavors of a classic taco filling with the comforting texture of spaghetti pasta. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a delightful fusion dish perfect for quick weeknight dinners that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
Optional Garnishes
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta well and set it aside to prevent it from sticking.
- Prepare the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. If there is excess fat, drain it carefully.
- Make the Taco Sauce: To the browned beef in the skillet, add the taco seasoning mix, undrained diced tomatoes with green chilies, and tomato sauce. Stir everything well and allow it to simmer for 5 minutes so the flavors meld together.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the taco beef sauce. Toss thoroughly to ensure every strand of spaghetti is coated in the flavorful taco sauce.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the pasta mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
- Serve: Serve the taco spaghetti hot. Garnish with optional sour cream, chopped green onions, and cilantro for added creaminess and fresh flavor.
Notes
- For a lighter option, use ground turkey instead of ground beef.
- Adjust the level of spice by choosing mild or spicy taco seasoning.
- You can substitute spaghetti with other pasta shapes like penne or rotini.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
- Add vegetables such as bell peppers or corn to increase the nutritional content.
