If you’ve been searching for a fun and delicious twist to your weeknight pasta dishes, this Taco Spaghetti Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining the zesty, bold flavors of classic tacos with comforting spaghetti, this dish brings together two beloved cuisines in a way that feels fresh, satisfying, and downright exciting. It’s a one-pan wonder that delivers vibrant colors, rich textures, and an irresistible blend of spices that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering, this Taco Spaghetti Recipe is guaranteed to become a fast favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Taco Spaghetti Recipe plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture, making the dish both hearty and vibrant without any fuss. From the perfectly cooked spaghetti serving as a base to the tangy salsa and creamy sour cream, every component works harmoniously for that perfect balance.
- 8 ounces spaghetti: Provides the perfect canvas for soaking up the taco-seasoned sauce with a satisfying bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for browning the beef and sautéing aromatics, enhancing depth and richness.
- 1 pound ground beef: The protein powerhouse that carries the taco flavors beautifully and makes the dish filling.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds a natural sweetness and subtle crunch once softened in the pan.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers that aromatic punch that elevates every savory dish.
- 1 packet taco seasoning: The key to infusing that unmistakable Mexican-inspired flavor into the sauce.
- 1/2 cup water: Helps the taco seasoning come alive and meld with the other ingredients into a luscious sauce.
- 1 cup salsa: Brings brightness, tang, and a zesty kick to the dish.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds creaminess and softens the edges of all those bold, spicy notes.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey goodness that ties everything together beautifully.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor and a burst of color.
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped: Lends a fresh, citrusy finish that brightens every bite.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances and balances all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Taco Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by cooking the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—that perfect tender bite that holds the sauce well. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside to await its flavorful makeover.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Let it brown evenly, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. This step is where the rich, meaty foundation of the dish is built, so don’t rush it!
Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Now, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic into the skillet with the beef. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent, releasing those sweet and savory aromas that kick this recipe up a notch.
Step 4: Add Taco Seasoning and Water
Sprinkle the packet of taco seasoning over the cooked mixture and pour in half a cup of water. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes. This allows the seasoning to meld with the beef and vegetables, thickening into a saucy base bursting with flavor.
Step 5: Mix in Salsa and Spaghetti
Pour the salsa into the skillet and add the cooked spaghetti. Stir thoroughly to ensure every strand of pasta is coated with that zesty, taco-infused sauce. It’s the point where your Taco Spaghetti Recipe really starts to shine and tease your taste buds.
Step 6: Incorporate Sour Cream
Lower the heat and stir in the sour cream until the sauce is smooth and creamy. This addition tames the spice while adding a luscious texture that makes each mouthful comforting and rich.
Step 7: Melt the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the skillet’s contents. Cover the pan briefly and let the cheese melt into a gooey, flavorful blanket over the pasta. It’s that irresistible finishing touch that everyone will love.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle chopped green onions and cilantro on top for freshness and vibrant color. Then it’s ready to dive into your delicious Taco Spaghetti Recipe with a welcoming warmth and a burst of tastes in every bite.
How to Serve Taco Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing with fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro and green onions adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. You might also sprinkle a bit of extra cheddar cheese or add a dollop of sour cream on top for those creamy, melty moments in each forkful.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs brilliantly with simple sides like a crisp green salad, crunchy tortilla chips, or even a side of roasted vegetables. These accompaniments balance the hearty and creamy textures of the Taco Spaghetti Recipe perfectly, making the meal well-rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Taco Spaghetti in individual bowls with extra lime wedges on the side or layer it in a casserole dish and bake until bubbly for a festive gathering. You can even sprinkle some crushed tortilla chips on top for extra texture and crunch that takes the experience to the next level.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Taco Spaghetti Recipe, simply transfer them into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for an easy lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked Taco Spaghetti in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely first, and leave some headspace to allow for expansion. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the spaghetti gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of water or broth to revive the creamy sauce, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring between, to prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully for a lighter version and still soaks up the taco seasoning beautifully without sacrificing flavor.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Taco Spaghetti Recipe?
Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat crumbles, lentils, or even diced mushrooms to keep it hearty and flavorful while vegetarian-friendly.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely. Simply swap regular spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta, and double-check that your taco seasoning and salsa are gluten-free to keep it safe.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level depends largely on the taco seasoning and salsa you choose. You can adjust by selecting mild or spicy versions or by adding fresh jalapeños if you like extra heat.
Can I prepare Taco Spaghetti Recipe in advance for a crowd?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Keep them separate until just before serving to maintain texture, then combine and warm everything together for a stress-free meal.
Final Thoughts
This Taco Spaghetti Recipe is truly a delightful mashup that brings excitement to the dinner table without any complicated steps. It’s perfect for those times you want familiar flavors in a fun new form that everyone will enjoy. So go ahead, give it a try, and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Print
Taco Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American Fusion
Description
Taco Spaghetti is a delicious fusion dish that combines classic Mexican taco flavors with hearty Italian spaghetti. Ground beef seasoned with taco spices is simmered with salsa and mixed with cooked spaghetti, then enriched with creamy sour cream and topped with melted cheddar cheese, green onions, and fresh cilantro. This easy 25-minute meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that satisfies both taco and pasta cravings.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces spaghetti
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasoning & Sauce
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Brown the ground beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add taco seasoning: Stir in the packet of taco seasoning and 1/2 cup water. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and flavors to combine.
- Combine pasta and salsa: Add 1 cup of salsa and the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Mix well to ensure the pasta is fully coated with the taco sauce.
- Incorporate sour cream: Reduce heat to low and stir in 1/2 cup sour cream, blending it thoroughly into the pasta and meat mixture for a creamy texture.
- Melt the cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese over the skillet contents. Cover or let it sit for 1-2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt evenly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and top the dish with chopped green onions and cilantro for freshness and color. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use mild or spicy salsa depending on your heat preference.
- For a lower-fat option, use lean ground beef or ground turkey.
- You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier twist.
- Add bell peppers or corn when sautéing onions for extra veggies.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
