If you’ve ever wished for a dish that brings together the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine and the comforting texture of Italian pasta, this Taco Spaghetti Recipe is going to become your new go-to favorite. This one-pot wonder combines seasoned ground beef, zesty salsa, creamy sour cream, and melty cheddar cheese all tossed with perfectly cooked spaghetti. It’s a quick, fun, and insanely satisfying dinner that feels like a fiesta on your plate every time you make it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Taco Spaghetti Recipe lies in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a key role, from the hearty ground beef giving you protein and richness, to the taco seasoning that pumps up the flavor dial, and the fresh herbs that add a bright finish.
- Spaghetti (8 ounces): This is the pasta base, which soaks up all the taco-flavored goodness.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For browning the beef and adding a subtle fruitiness.
- Ground beef (1 pound): The protein star that’s full of savory depth.
- Onion, chopped (1 medium): Brings sweetness and texture to balance the spices.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Adds that essential aromatic punch.
- Taco seasoning packet (1): The flavor bomb that instantly makes this dish sing with classic Mexican taste.
- Water (1/2 cup): Helps create the sauce and keeps the pasta moist.
- Salsa (1 cup): Brings fresh tomato brightness and tang.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds creaminess and a slight tang to mellow the spices.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts perfectly for that irresistible cheesy finish.
- Chopped green onions (1/4 cup): Gives a fresh, mild onion flavor and crunch.
- Cilantro, chopped (1/4 cup): Adds freshness and a pop of green color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors together.
How to Make Taco Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by boiling the spaghetti in salted water according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Cooking it just right ensures the strands will hold the sauce beautifully without becoming mushy.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with your spoon or spatula as it cooks. This step develops that rich, caramelized flavor that’s key to the dish’s heartiness. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the beef is nicely browned throughout.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic right into the skillet. Sauté them until the onion softens and becomes translucent, around 3 minutes. This layer brings sweetness and aromatic depth that balances the spiciness of the taco seasoning.
Step 4: Add Taco Seasoning and Water
Sprinkle in the taco seasoning packet and pour in the water. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. This gently thickens the sauce, infusing the beef with all those lively, zesty flavors that make this Taco Spaghetti Recipe shine.
Step 5: Combine Salsa and Spaghetti
Pour the salsa into the skillet, then add your cooked spaghetti. Toss everything well, making sure every strand of pasta is coated in that delicious sauce. This melding step is where the magic happens, blending the Italian and Mexican worlds beautifully.
Step 6: Stir in Sour Cream
Lower the heat to low and fold in the sour cream gradually. This adds a luscious creaminess that softens the spices and brings the whole dish together with a velvety touch.
Step 7: Melt the Cheddar Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta and let it melt on the low heat for about 1 to 2 minutes. That gooey, cheesy layer is the perfect finishing touch that makes this meal irresistible.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle chopped green onions and cilantro on top. These fresh garnishes add crunch, brightness, and a pop of vibrant color to your Taco Spaghetti Recipe.
How to Serve Taco Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
Besides the green onions and cilantro, you can add a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of fresh lime to brighten up each bite. For an extra kick, sprinkle some crushed tortilla chips on top for delightful crunch and texture contrast.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty on its own, but pairing it with a simple side salad, corn on the cob, or refried beans can round out the meal perfectly. A light Mexican rice also complements the flavors without overpowering the main event.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Taco Spaghetti Recipe in colorful bowls to showcase its vibrant ingredients. You can also turn it into a fun casserole by layering with extra cheese and baking until bubbly for a crowd-pleassing twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftover Taco Spaghetti into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days — perfect for quick lunches or dinners during busy weekdays.
Freezing
If you want to keep this tasty meal longer, freeze it in a suitable container or freezer bag. To preserve the textures best, consider leaving out the sour cream until you reheat and serve, then add it fresh.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water or broth to loosen up the sauce. Microwaving works well too; just cover to keep moisture in and heat in short bursts while stirring.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option that works beautifully in this recipe. Just cook it the same way until fully browned and enjoy the lighter twist.
Is this Taco Spaghetti Recipe spicy?
The spice level largely depends on the taco seasoning and salsa you choose. If you prefer mild, pick milder seasonings and salsa, or spice it up with hotter versions or a dash of chili powder.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for seasoned lentils or a plant-based meat substitute. The rest of the recipe stays the same and tastes equally delicious.
What type of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar is classic here because it melts nicely and adds a tasty punch, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or even a Mexican cheese blend for different flavor nuances.
Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Use gluten-free spaghetti or your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just make sure your taco seasoning and salsa are gluten-free as well to keep everything safe.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly joyful about this Taco Spaghetti Recipe — it combines comfort and excitement in one bowl, making weeknight dinners something to look forward to. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, it’s a versatile recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. Go ahead, give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Print
Taco Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
This Taco Spaghetti recipe brings together the bold flavors of a classic taco in a comforting pasta dish. Featuring ground beef seasoned with taco spices, mixed with onions, garlic, salsa, and creamy sour cream, all tossed with spaghetti and topped with cheddar cheese, green onions, and cilantro. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces spaghetti
Meat Mixture
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cup salsa
Finishing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to be combined later with the sauce.
- Brown 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 thoroughly, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Continue to cook and stir until the onion softens, about 3 minutes.
- Add taco seasoning and simmer: Stir in the taco seasoning and water, allowing the mixture to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so the sauce thickens and the flavors meld.
- Combine salsa and spaghetti: Add the salsa and cooked spaghetti directly to the skillet. Stir well to ensure the spaghetti is fully coated with the flavorful taco sauce.
- Mix in sour cream: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream until it is evenly incorporated, creating a creamy consistency.
- Melt cheddar cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the spaghetti mixture. Let it melt for 1 to 2 minutes while still on low heat.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro for freshness and extra flavor before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Use gluten-free spaghetti to make this dish gluten-free.
- Adjust the amount of sour cream according to your preferred creaminess level.
- For added heat, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
