Taco Spaghetti Recipe
Taco Spaghetti is a flavorful fusion dish combining the hearty elements of classic spaghetti with zesty taco seasoning and fresh ingredients. Ground beef seasoned with taco spices is combined with Rotel tomatoes and spaghetti noodles, then topped with melted cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a comforting and delicious meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American Fusion
Spaghetti
- 8 ounces spaghetti noodles (224g)
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef (450g)
- 1 small yellow onion, diced (187g)
- 1 (1-ounce/28g) packet taco seasoning
- 1 (10-ounce/284g) can Rotel tomatoes
- 4 ounces shredded cheddar cheese (114g)
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro for garnish
- Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the spaghetti noodles. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté the Onion and Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Add Taco Seasoning and Tomatoes: Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked beef mixture and stir to coat evenly. Pour in the can of Rotel tomatoes (with juice) and stir to combine. Let this simmer for 5-7 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Combine with Spaghetti: Add the cooked spaghetti noodles directly into the skillet with the beef and tomato mixture. Toss well to ensure the noodles are thoroughly coated with the taco sauce.
- Add Cheese and Serve: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the skillet mixture. Cover for a minute or two to allow the cheese to melt. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, use Rotel tomatoes with green chilies or add extra chili powder to the taco seasoning.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- To make it vegetarian, omit the meat and use seasoned beans instead.
- Use gluten-free spaghetti noodles to make this recipe gluten free.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave.
Keywords: taco spaghetti, taco pasta, ground beef pasta, easy weeknight dinner, Tex-Mex pasta