If you are craving something that’s bursting with Tex-Mex flair but also delivers comforting pasta vibes, you’ve got to try this incredible Taco Spaghetti Recipe. It’s a vibrant, flavorful fusion that takes your typical spaghetti dish to a whole new level with hearty ground beef, zesty taco seasoning, and a medley of fresh ingredients that come together in a deliciously saucy, cheesy feast. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, this recipe is a total game-changer that’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your meal rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but absolutely essential for nailing that perfect balance of texture, flavor, and color in the Taco Spaghetti Recipe. Every component, from the ground beef to the beans and cheeses, works in harmony to build a dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and full of zest.
- 12 ounces spaghetti: The classic pasta base that soaks up all the taco-infused goodness beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the beef perfectly and adds a subtle richness.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides the savory protein punch and a robust foundation.
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 3 tablespoons homemade): The key to capturing authentic taco flavor with spices that make this dish pop.
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies: Adds a spicy, tangy brightness and some color.
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce: Creates a smooth, rich sauce that coats every strand of spaghetti.
- 1 cup beef broth: Adds depth and moisture to the sauce, tying everything together.
- 1 cup frozen corn: Brings a touch of sweetness and a pleasing pop of texture.
- 1 cup black beans (drained and rinsed): Boosts protein and fiber while enhancing the Southwestern vibe.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the perfect melty crown of cheesy goodness.
- 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese: Offers a creamy complement to the sharper cheddar.
- 2 green onions (sliced): Provides fresh, crisp bites that brighten each forkful.
- Fresh cilantro for garnish: Adds a vibrant herbal note that finishes the dish beautifully.
How to Make Taco Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Begin by boiling the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture — tender but with a slight bite. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside to get ready for soaking up that mouthwatering sauce.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s beautifully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon to ensure even cooking—about 5 to 6 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat if needed to keep the dish from feeling greasy.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Stir the taco seasoning right into the beef, letting those spices bloom. Then add the diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and cook for about 5 minutes to marry all those flavors and thicken the sauce slightly.
Step 4: Add Corn and Beans
Mix in the frozen corn along with the rinsed black beans. These add wonderful texture and body to the sauce, creating a hearty base that’s both colorful and nutritious.
Step 5: Combine with Spaghetti and Cheese
Finally, toss in the cooked spaghetti and stir until it’s fully coated in that rich taco-infused sauce. Sprinkle the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the top, then cover the pan and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes so the cheese melts into gooey perfection.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish by scattering sliced green onions and fresh cilantro over the cheesy goodness. This final touch adds a refreshing snap and vibrant color that makes this Taco Spaghetti Recipe absolutely irresistible.
How to Serve Taco Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
While green onions and cilantro are stellar on their own, feel free to add dollops of sour cream for creaminess or a few slices of avocado for a buttery contrast. A squeeze of lime juice brightens up the whole dish, adding an extra zing that complements the taco flavors perfectly.
Side Dishes
Serve this Taco Spaghetti with a crisp side salad or some classic tortilla chips to keep that Tex-Mex theme rolling. A simple Mexican street corn salad or a light cucumber and tomato salad with lime can add a fresh counterpoint to the rich pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this Taco Spaghetti Recipe layered in individual oven-safe bowls topped with extra cheese and broiled for a minute to get a golden, bubbly crust. For a fun twist, scoop it into roasted bell peppers for a colorful presentation that doubles as an edible bowl!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftover Taco Spaghetti to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop even more, making it an excellent option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if you want to make it ahead of time. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain the best texture and flavors.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to restore its saucy consistency and keep that taco spaghetti delightfully juicy.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative that works wonderfully in this Taco Spaghetti Recipe. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and adjust seasoning as turkey tends to be milder in flavor.
Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level depends largely on the taco seasoning and diced tomatoes with chilies. You can opt for mild versions if you prefer gentle heat, or go with hot varieties to kick up the spice even more.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Simply skip the cheese or substitute with your favorite dairy-free cheese alternatives to enjoy a delicious dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor.
What can I do to make the dish creamier?
For an extra creamy touch, stir in half a cup of sour cream or cream cheese at the end of cooking. It turns your Taco Spaghetti Recipe into a luxuriously rich comfort meal.
How long does this recipe take from start to finish?
This recipe is impressively quick, taking about 30 minutes total—10 minutes prep and 20 minutes cooking—making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty and satisfying fast.
Final Thoughts
This Taco Spaghetti Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, blending the best of Tex-Mex with the comfort of a classic pasta dish in such an exciting and delicious way. It’s straightforward to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. I highly encourage you to give it a try—you might just find your new go-to dinner that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
Print
Taco Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex, Fusion
- Diet: Dairy-Free option (omit cheese or use dairy-free cheese)
Description
This Taco Spaghetti recipe blends classic Italian pasta with bold Tex-Mex flavors for a delicious, easy weeknight dinner. Ground beef simmers in a seasoned tomato sauce with corn and black beans, tossed with spaghetti and topped with melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Garnished with green onions and fresh cilantro, it’s a comforting fusion dish perfect for the whole family.
Ingredients
Spaghetti and Sauce
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 3 tablespoons homemade)
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 cup black beans (drained and rinsed)
Cheese and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 green onions (sliced)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: Prepare the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook for 5–6 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon until evenly browned. Drain excess fat if needed to reduce greasiness.
- Add Seasonings and Sauce: Stir in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
- Incorporate Vegetables: Add frozen corn and drained black beans to the sauce, stirring thoroughly to combine the ingredients evenly.
- Combine with Spaghetti: Toss the cooked spaghetti directly into the sauce mixture, stirring well to ensure the pasta is fully coated with the flavorful sauce.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the pasta. Cover the skillet and let sit for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts completely.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle sliced green onions and fresh cilantro on top before serving to add freshness and color to the dish.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, stir in 1/2 cup sour cream or cream cheese at the end of cooking.
- This dish can be made ahead and reheated, making it excellent for meal prep and leftovers.
- Adjust the spice level by choosing mild or hot diced tomatoes with green chilies according to your preference.
- To make it dairy-free, omit the cheese or substitute with dairy-free cheese alternatives.
