Taco Spaghetti is the perfect fusion of two comforting favorites, and it’s just as satisfying as it sounds. Imagine all the bold, zesty flavors of your favorite tacos wrapped up in a cheesy, satisfying pasta dish.
The first time I made this for my family, I knew it was a keeper. It’s hearty, full of flavor, and so simple to throw together on a busy weeknight. Plus, it’s one of those meals that makes the whole kitchen smell amazing while it cooks.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just need a quick dinner idea that’s anything but boring, this recipe is bound to become a regular in your rotation.
What’s Inside This Recipe?
Ingredients for Taco Spaghetti
To make this easy taco spaghetti recipe, you’ll need a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Here’s everything you need:
- 8 ounces spaghetti (break in half for easier serving)
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey works, too)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- 2 cups beef broth (you can substitute chicken or vegetable broth)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a Mexican blend)
Optional toppings:
- Chopped cilantro
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced jalapeños
- Sour cream
If you prefer to bake this as a casserole, you’ll also need a 9×13-inch baking dish. Let’s start cooking!
How to Make Taco Spaghetti
This recipe is so straightforward, even beginner cooks can tackle it with confidence. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious taco spaghetti dish your whole family will love.
Step 1: Cook the spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the ground beef
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Use a wooden spoon to break it up into crumbles as it cooks. Add the diced onion and cook for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Season and simmer
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef mixture, stirring well to coat. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, and tomato sauce.
Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Add the cream cheese
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream cheese until it’s fully melted and incorporated into the sauce. It should create a silky, creamy texture that’s irresistible.
Step 5: Combine the pasta and sauce
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss gently to coat every strand of pasta in the flavorful sauce. Make sure everything is evenly mixed.
Step 6: Top with cheese and bake (optional)
If you’d like to turn this into a taco spaghetti casserole, transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve and enjoy
Serve your taco spaghetti warm, topped with your favorite garnishes like fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream. Pair it with a simple green salad or tortilla chips on the side for a complete meal.
Recipe Variations and Customization Ideas
One of the best things about taco spaghetti is how easy it is to tweak for your family’s tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few of my favorite variations:
- Vegetarian Taco Spaghetti: Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or black beans. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for the sauce.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace the spaghetti with spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles to make it keto-friendly. You’ll still get all the taco flavors without the carbs!
- Crockpot Taco Spaghetti: Brown the ground beef and onion in a skillet first, then transfer everything (except the cheese) to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4–5 hours. Stir in the cream cheese and shredded cheese before serving.
- Kid-Friendly Twist: Leave out the diced tomatoes with chilies if your kids prefer milder flavors. You can also serve the toppings on the side so everyone can customize their own bowl.
Leftover taco spaghetti reheats beautifully! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months, just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions About Taco Spaghetti
What is taco spaghetti?
Taco spaghetti is a Tex-Mex-inspired dish that combines the flavors of tacos (like seasoned beef, tomatoes, and cheese) with the comfort of pasta. It’s a fun and family-friendly twist on classic spaghetti recipes.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works well, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, like penne, rotini, or even fettuccine. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
How do I make this spicier?
For extra heat, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture. You can also use a spicy taco seasoning or top the dish with hot sauce.
What’s the best way to reheat taco spaghetti?
I recommend reheating it in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Can I make this in advance?
Yes! Taco spaghetti is perfect for meal prep. Assemble the dish (without baking), cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Let’s Get Cooking!
I hope you’re as excited about this Taco Spaghetti recipe as I am. It’s a simple, satisfying meal that’s full of flavor and perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. If you give it a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below or tag me on social media—I’m always thrilled to see your creations.
Looking for more quick and easy dinner ideas? You’ll love my Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole or One-Pot Chili Mac. Happy cooking!
With love from my kitchen to yours,
Wanda
Taco Spaghetti
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti break in half for easier serving
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey works, too
- 1 small onion diced
- 1 packet taco seasoning or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning
- 1 can 10 ounces diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- 2 cups beef broth you can substitute chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 4 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or a Mexican blend
Optional toppings:
- Chopped cilantro
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced jalapeños
- Sour cream
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the ground beef
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Use a wooden spoon to break it up into crumbles as it cooks. Add the diced onion and cook for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Season and simmer
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef mixture, stirring well to coat. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, and tomato sauce.
- Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Add the cream cheese
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream cheese until it’s fully melted and incorporated into the sauce. It should create a silky, creamy texture that’s irresistible.
Step 5: Combine the pasta and sauce
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss gently to coat every strand of pasta in the flavorful sauce. Make sure everything is evenly mixed.
Step 6: Top with cheese and bake (optional)
- If you’d like to turn this into a taco spaghetti casserole, transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve and enjoy
- Serve your taco spaghetti warm, topped with your favorite garnishes like fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream. Pair it with a simple green salad or tortilla chips on the side for a complete meal.
