The Best Taco Spaghetti Recipe

Ready for a mash-up that will make your weeknight dinners downright unforgettable? The Best Taco Spaghetti takes the bold, zesty flavors of your favorite tacos and wraps them around comforting strands of pasta, all blanketed in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This fun, family-pleasing dish combines everything you love about Mexican-American cuisine Main Course.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing what magic can happen with a handful of well-chosen ingredients! Every component in The Best Taco Spaghetti brings something special, from rich depth to a burst of color or a creamy finish. Here’s what you’ll need to create this showstopper at home:

• Spaghetti (12 ounces): Sturdy enough to soak up the saucy goodness while staying perfectly twirlable.
• Ground beef (1 pound): The savory backbone that makes this dish heartier and more satisfying.
• Onion (1 small, diced): Adds sweetness and depth, building flavor right from the start.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Just the right kick of that classic aromatic punch.
• Taco seasoning mix (1 packet, about 1 ounce): A fuss-free way to infuse big, bold, Tex-Mex flavor.
• Diced tomatoes with green chilies (1 can, 14.5 ounces): Offers tanginess and a pleasant hint of heat.
• Beef broth (1 cup): Provides that essential sauciness without diluting the punchy flavors.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Turns everything irresistibly melty and cheesy.
• Sour cream (½ cup): The key to lush, velvety sauce that binds the pasta together.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons): A healthy start for sautéing the aromatics and beef.
• Salt and black pepper (to taste): For that final seasoning finesse.
• Chopped fresh cilantro or green onions (optional, for garnish): Fresh, vibrant pops of color and herby aroma.

How to Make The Best Taco Spaghetti

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil and cook your spaghetti until just al dente, following the package directions. You want it to have a bite, since it’ll spend a little more time in the pan soaking up that taco-infused sauce. Drain and set it aside—you’ll need it soon!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium-high. Toss in your diced onion and let it soften for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring every so often to encourage sweetness and caramelization. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, when your kitchen starts smelling irresistible.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef straight into the skillet. Cook it through, breaking it up with a spoon so you get an even crumble—think taco filling consistency. Once it’s browned and just cooked, you’re just moments away from maximum flavor!

Step 4: Spice It Up

Stir in the taco seasoning mix, followed by the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies and a cup of beef broth. Mix it all together and bring everything up to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble for about 5 to 7 minutes; the flavors will meld and the sauce will start to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Add your cooked spaghetti to the skillet, then sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and dollop on the sour cream. Toss and fold everything until the cheese melts and the sauce coats every noodle in creamy, taco-filled goodness. Finish it off with a little salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Right before serving, scatter over some chopped fresh cilantro or a handful of sliced green onions for an instant hit of color and freshness. This final touch turns The Best Taco Spaghetti into a full-on fiesta.

How to Serve The Best Taco Spaghetti

Garnishes

Don’t skip those finishing touches! A sprinkle of cilantro or green onions adds brightness and makes the whole plate pop. For extra fun, try a dollop of sour cream, sliced jalapenos, or even crushed tortilla chips for crunch. These simple garnishes can elevate The Best Taco Spaghetti from tasty to truly memorable.

Side Dishes

Keep things simple and let the main event shine. A crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette, some roasted corn, or a bowl of black beans round out the meal beautifully. For a fun Tex-Mex spread, serve The Best Taco Spaghetti alongside warm tortillas or cheesy quesadillas.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful twist, serve individual portions in mini cast iron skillets or colorful bowls. You can also scoop the spaghetti into bell pepper halves and bake them briefly for an adorable, party-ready presentation. Leftovers? Load them into taco shells, top with cheese, and bake for crispy taco spaghetti boats!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any extras of The Best Taco Spaghetti keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as they sit, which makes leftovers even more tempting the next day. Just be sure to cool everything to room temperature before popping it in the fridge.

Freezing

This dish freezes like a dream! Portion cooled spaghetti into freezer-safe containers or bags. It’ll keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready for a quick dinner, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat as needed.

Reheating

For best results, reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen everything up. You can also microwave individual servings, covered, in short bursts, stirring in between. A fresh sprinkle of cheese right before serving brings everything right back to life.

FAQs

Can I make The Best Taco Spaghetti with a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken both work beautifully and create a lighter version. You could even try a plant-based ground for a vegetarian spin—just boost the seasoning to keep all that delicious flavor.

Is there a way to make it spicier?

Craving heat? Simply add some chopped jalapenos or your favorite hot sauce to the sauce, or use a spicier taco seasoning. Each bite can have as much kick as you want!

Can I make The Best Taco Spaghetti ahead for a potluck?

Yes! This recipe is a potluck superstar. Make it up to a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and gently reheat just before serving. Add fresh garnishes right before you head out for the perfect party presentation.

Is it gluten-free?

Swap regular spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your taco seasoning packet is certified GF, and you’re good to go. All the flavor without the gluten!

What cheese can I use instead of cheddar?

Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a blend of Mexican cheeses will give you that same gooey, melty magic. Feel free to mix in a little pepper jack if you want a zesty punch!

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried The Best Taco Spaghetti, you’re in for something really special. This recipe will quickly find a place in your regular dinner rotation, filling your home with laughter and happy tummies. Don’t be surprised when friends and family ask for seconds—or for the recipe itself!

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