Description
This Easy Taco Spaghetti Recipe combines the bold flavors of taco seasoning with classic spaghetti for a quick and delicious dinner. Ground beef is simmered with diced tomatoes and spices, then tossed with spaghetti and melted cheddar cheese, creating a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz spaghetti pasta
Beef and Sauce
- 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 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional for garnish)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions in boiling salted water until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Prepare the Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess fat if needed.
- 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 well and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti directly to the skillet with the beef and taco sauce mixture. Toss everything together thoroughly until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the pasta in the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Serve the taco spaghetti hot. Optionally, top each serving with sour cream, chopped green onions, and chopped cilantro for added flavor and garnish.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Adding diced bell peppers or corn to the beef mixture can add texture and extra flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce when simmering the sauce.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat or cooked lentils and adjust seasoning accordingly.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
