Taco Spaghetti is the perfect combination of two of the most beloved cuisines: Mexican and Italian. It’s an innovative dish that takes the best elements of tacos — such as ground beef, taco seasoning, and cheese — and combines them with the comforting texture of pasta. The result is a hearty, cheesy, and flavorful meal that has become a favorite for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or anyone who loves bold, savory flavors. The dish is incredibly easy to make, customizable to your tastes, and sure to please a crowd. If you’re craving a fun twist on traditional spaghetti, Taco Spaghetti will quickly become a new go-to recipe.

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Ingredients:

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 packet of taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning, see below)
• 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies (optional, for added heat)
• 1 cup beef or chicken broth (or water)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)

For the Spaghetti:

• 12 oz spaghetti (regular or gluten-free)
• Salt, for the pasta water

For the Toppings:

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup chopped lettuce (optional)
• 1 tomato, diced (optional)
• Chopped cilantro (optional)
• Sliced jalapeños (optional)
• Crushed tortilla chips (optional, for added crunch)
• Lime wedges (optional)

Homemade Taco Seasoning (optional):

If you prefer a homemade taco seasoning, combine the following spices:

• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

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Preparation:

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti to the pot and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once the pasta is ready, drain the spaghetti, but be sure to reserve a small cup of the pasta water to use later if needed. Set the spaghetti aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Taco Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion to the pan and sauté for 3-5 minutes, until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook the meat until it’s fully browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off.

Step 3: Add the Taco Seasoning

Once the meat is browned, stir in the taco seasoning (or your homemade seasoning blend). Let the seasoning cook with the meat for about 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This will help the seasoning become fragrant and bring out its full flavor.

Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Broth

Next, pour in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, and diced green chilies (if using). Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the beef or chicken broth, mixing well. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors combine.

Step 5: Combine the Spaghetti with the Meat Sauce

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the taco meat sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce to ensure every noodle is coated with the flavorful mixture. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to thin it out and create a smooth, creamy consistency.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the spaghetti and meat sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit on low heat for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and become bubbly.

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Variation:

• Vegetarian Taco Spaghetti: For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with plant-based meat, such as crumbled tofu, tempeh, or a mixture of beans (like black beans or pinto beans). You can also use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash as a lower-carb option.
• Spicy Taco Spaghetti: Add extra heat to the dish by incorporating sliced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or more diced green chilies. For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle some hot sauce over the top before serving.
• Cheesy Taco Spaghetti: If you’re a cheese lover, increase the amount of cheese used in the recipe. You can also add a layer of cream cheese or Velveeta for a creamier texture.

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Cooking Notes:

• Meat Options: While ground beef is the most traditional option, you can easily substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even ground pork for a different flavor. For a healthier option, lean ground turkey or chicken is a great choice.
• Adjust the Texture: If the sauce feels too thin, allow it to simmer longer to thicken up. Conversely, if it’s too thick, add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
• Cheese Variations: If you want a more authentic taco flavor, use a mix of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese instead of mozzarella.

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Serving Suggestions:

• Serve Taco Spaghetti hot, garnished with a dollop of sour cream and a generous sprinkling of chopped lettuce, tomatoes, cilantro, and any other toppings you desire.
• To add some crunch, serve with tortilla chips on the side, or sprinkle them over the top for added texture.
• Pair it with a fresh green salad, guacamole, or Mexican street corn (Elote) for a complete meal.

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Tips:

• Meal Prep: Taco Spaghetti makes great leftovers! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free spaghetti or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) as a low-carb alternative to regular pasta.
• Customize the Heat: You can adjust the heat level of the dish by controlling the amount of taco seasoning, chilies, and jalapeños. Start with a mild version, then add extra heat for those who prefer it spicy.

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Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

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Nutritional Information (per serving):

(Note: These values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 5g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Sugar: 6g

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FAQs:

Q: Can I make Taco Spaghetti ahead of time?
A: Yes! Taco Spaghetti is a great make-ahead meal. Prepare the sauce and pasta separately, then combine and refrigerate. Reheat the dish before serving, and add cheese and toppings just before serving.

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even elbow macaroni.

Q: Can I freeze Taco Spaghetti?
A: Yes, Taco Spaghetti can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven or stovetop.

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Conclusion:

Taco Spaghetti is a creative and delicious fusion dish that perfectly blends two classic comfort foods into one satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for a family, meal prepping, or craving something new, Taco Spaghetti offers all the flavors you love in a fun and easy-to-make dish. With endless variations and toppings, this recipe can be tailored to suit everyone’s tastes. It’s sure to become a weekly favorite that you’ll return to again and again!