Name: Taco Spaghetti
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons taco seasoning, or 1 packet store-bought; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; 2 cups (16 ounces) salsa; 1 (10-ounce) can petite diced tomatoes & green chiles (such as rotel), undrained; 3 cups beef broth; 8 ounces spaghetti noodles, broken in half; 2 cups shredded mexican blend, sharp cheddar, or monterey jack cheese, divided; fresh minced cilantro, sour cream, and/or hot pepper sauce (optional), for serving

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Taco spaghetti is a delightful fusion of two beloved dishes—tacos and spaghetti—resulting in a flavorful one-pot meal that’s sure to impress. The combination of savory ground beef, zesty salsa, and perfectly cooked spaghetti creates a comforting dish loaded with bold flavors and a touch of cheese. Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers with friends and family.

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I first stumbled upon taco spaghetti during a hectic week when I craved something hearty yet quick. This dish came to the rescue, turning out to be a family favorite from the first bite. The creamy cheese and vibrant spices meld beautifully, creating layers of taste and texture that make it feel special—despite being so simple to prepare. I bet you’ll find yourself making this week after week, too!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Taco Spaghetti
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Taco Spaghetti

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just about 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of taco seasoning and salsa gives each bite an explosion of taste.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The colorful layers of cheese and toppings make it as fun to eat as it is to make.
Flexible Serving: Enjoy it for dinner, or serve as a part of a casual party spread.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily tweak ingredients for a gluten-free or lower-carb version if needed.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 pound lean ground beef: This is the heart of your dish, offering a rich protein base. For a lighter option, turkey can be substituted.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a fragrant touch and depth of flavor.
3 tablespoons taco seasoning (or 1 packet store-bought): For that quintessential taco flavor; homemade mixes are equally delightful!
½ teaspoon dried oregano: This herb complements the taco seasoning beautifully.
2 cups (16 ounces) salsa: Choose your favorite brand; it brings moisture and zest that elevates the dish.
1 (10-ounce) can petite diced tomatoes & green chiles (undrained): These provide texture and a bit of heat.
3 cups beef broth: This gives the spaghetti enough liquid to cook properly. Vegetable broth works well too!
8 ounces spaghetti noodles, broken in half: Spaghetti’s classic shape soaks up the flavors perfectly.
2 cups shredded Mexican blend, sharp cheddar, or Monterey Jack cheese: Cheese adds creaminess and binds everything together; feel free to mix varieties!
Fresh minced cilantro, sour cream, and/or hot pepper sauce (optional): These toppings add brightness and a kick of flavor to serve.

How to Make Taco Spaghetti

Cook Ground Beef: Set a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of lean ground beef and cook until no longer pink, breaking apart and stirring as it cooks. Stir in 3 cloves minced garlic and cook for another minute or two until it’s fragrant.
Season and Add Sauce: Drain the grease from the pot and sprinkle in 3 tablespoons taco seasoning and ½ teaspoon dried oregano. Pour in 2 cups salsa, 1 (10-ounce) can petite diced tomatoes & green chiles (undrained), and 3 cups beef broth. Stir well to combine, bringing the mixture to a boil.
Add Spaghetti: Once boiling, lay the broken 8 ounces of spaghetti noodles on top of the sauce, criscrossing them and pressing them down until they’re submerged. Don’t stir just yet!
Simmer: Cover the pot, reducing the heat to a low simmer (about medium-low), and cook while stirring every 5 minutes. It should take about 15 to 20 minutes until the excess liquid is absorbed and the pasta is al dente.
Mix in Cheese: Stir in 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheese until melted through. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and let it melt. Serve immediately, topping with optional fresh minced cilantro, sour cream, and/or hot pepper sauce.

Storing & Reheating

To store any leftovers, let taco spaghetti cool and transfer it to an airtight container, where it can stay at room temperature for about 2 hours. Refrigerate for up to four days. You can freeze individual portions for up to three months. When reheating, microwave on high for about 2–3 minutes, mixing halfway through. Take care as the texture might change slightly after freezing, so stir in a splash of beef broth to refresh.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the spaghetti as it simmers; you want it tender yet firm.
Personalize the Heat: Adjust the spice level by opting for mild or hot salsa and using more or less taco seasoning.
Make it Ahead: You can cook the beef and sauce portion ahead of time; simply add the spaghetti at meal time.
Cheese Varieties: Feel free to mix different cheeses for a more complex flavor—try pepper jack for a spicy twist!
Texture Checks: If your sauce appears too dry, add a little extra beef broth to keep it creamy.

There’s something utterly comforting about comparing the merge of flavors in this dish. The satisfying heartiness of taco spaghetti is unmatched. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and sure to become a staple in your home, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a fun gathering with friends. Experiment with different toppings, or even a dash of lime juice to brighten up the flavors. Enjoy the burst of warmth and flavor it brings to your table.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make Taco Spaghetti vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for a plant-based alternative like lentils or crumbled tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can still enjoy all the taco flavors without the meat!

How can I make Taco Spaghetti more saucy?

If you prefer a saucier dish, simply increase the amount of salsa or beef broth. You can also incorporate a little more diced tomatoes. Just watch your cooking time to ensure the pasta doesn’t overcook.

What should I serve with Taco Spaghetti?

This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh salad, cornbread, or even tortilla chips and guacamole on the side. Guests will love the casual yet comforting vibe!

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Certainly! While spaghetti works perfectly, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like rotini or penne. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different shapes may require slight adjustments.

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