If you’re craving comfort food with a Tex-Mex twist, this Taco Spaghetti Recipe is the perfect choice. It’s cheesy, flavorful, and comes together in one pot, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Packed with ground beef, taco seasoning, and melty cheese, this recipe is a family favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Taco Spaghetti
Taco Spaghetti Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat.
- Step 3: Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet with beef. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Step 4: Stir in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes (with juice), and tomato sauce. Bring to a simmer for 5–7 minutes.
- Step 5: Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss until evenly coated with the sauce.
- Step 6: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Cover and cook 2–3 minutes until the cheese is melted.
- Step 7: Serve warm. Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or optional toppings like sour cream or avocado.
Notes
- Protein swaps: You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef to make a lighter version.
- Cheese options: Try Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a Mexican blend for a different flavor.
- Spice level: Add jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce for extra heat, or keep it mild with a gentle salsa.
- Make ahead: Cook the pasta and beef mixture separately, then combine and reheat when ready to serve. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months.
- Serving ideas: Top with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or avocado. Pair with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
- Family-friendly tip: Set out toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and salsa so everyone can customize their plate.
A Tex-Mex twist on classic spaghetti – Bold taco flavors transform everyday pasta into something exciting. Perfect for busy weeknights – Ready in about 30 minutes with simple ingredients. Family-friendly comfort food – Kids and adults will love the cheesy, savory combination. Budget-friendly – Uses pantry staples like pasta, tomatoes, and ground beef. 👉 Looking for more easy dinner ideas? Check out our Air Fryer Recipes — Crispy, Healthy Dinners for inspiration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
1 lb ground beef (or swap with ground turkey/chicken) 2 cups dry spaghetti pasta 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade mix with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika) 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz, with green chilies for extra flavor) 1 small onion (chopped) 1 bell pepper (diced) 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend Fresh cilantro, sour cream, salsa (for topping) 💡 For safe handling of ground beef, see USDA’s Food Safety Guidelines.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the pasta – Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti until al dente. Drain and set aside. Brown the beef – In a large skillet, cook ground beef with onion and bell pepper until browned. Drain excess fat. Add flavor – Stir in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, and ½ cup water or broth. Simmer for 5 minutes. Combine everything – Add cooked spaghetti into the skillet, sprinkle cheese on top, and stir until melted and creamy.
Tips, Variations & Substitutions
Make it creamy – Stir in ¼ cup sour cream or cream cheese at the end. Healthier swaps – Use whole wheat pasta or lean turkey instead of beef. Spice it up – Add jalapeños, chipotle powder, or hot salsa. One-pot hack – Cook pasta directly in the sauce for fewer dishes! 👉 For another quick family dinner, try our Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas.
How to Serve & Store Taco Spaghetti
Topping ideas – Fresh cilantro, avocado slices, sour cream, or extra salsa. Pairings – Serve with garlic bread or a crisp Mexican-style salad. Storage – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheating – Warm gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to keep it creamy.
Final Thoughts
This Taco Spaghetti Recipe combines the comfort of pasta with the bold flavors of tacos, all in one skillet. It’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for weeknight dinners. Whether you make it for family or friends, this dish is sure to impress and become a regular on your menu. For more Tex-Mex and pasta ideas, explore trusted resources like Serious Eats Pasta Guides or community favorites on AllRecipes.