Description
This Easy Taco Spaghetti recipe combines the bold flavors of classic Tex-Mex tacos with hearty spaghetti pasta for a delicious and simple dinner option. Ready in just 30 minutes, this one-pan meal features seasoned ground beef simmered in a zesty tomato sauce, tossed with tender spaghetti, and topped with melted cheddar cheese and optional garnishes like sour cream, green onions, and cilantro. Perfect for a family-friendly weeknight dinner that packs a flavorful punch.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
Optional Garnishes
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Prepare the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary to reduce greasiness.
- Make the Taco Sauce: Stir the taco seasoning mix into the cooked ground beef. Add the undrained diced tomatoes with green chilies and the tomato sauce. Mix well and let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti directly to the skillet with the beef and taco sauce mixture. Toss thoroughly to coat all the pasta evenly with the flavorful sauce.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the pasta in the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes on low heat, until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
- Serve: Dish out the taco spaghetti hot. Top with optional sour cream, chopped green onions, and cilantro for added freshness and creaminess before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- To make it a bit creamier, stir in the sour cream into the pasta instead of just topping it.
- This dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For gluten-free pasta, swap the spaghetti with corn or rice pasta.
