Introduction
Taco spaghetti is a creative fusion dish that combines the best of both worlds: the comforting, hearty nature of pasta with the bold, savory flavors of tacos.
Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish brings together ground beef, zesty taco seasoning, and fresh tomatoes, all topped off with gooey melted cheese.
The combination of spices and the satisfaction of a pasta meal makes this recipe a family favorite.
Ingredients
12 oz spaghetti
1 lb ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade blend)
1 can Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained)
2 cups beef broth
1 cup tomato sauce
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup diced red onion
Fresh cilantro for garnish
1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until browned.
breaking it up as it cooks. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat.
Stir in the taco seasoning, ensuring that the beef is well-coated with the spices.
If using homemade seasoning, make sure to blend it well for an even flavor throughout.
Next, pour in the Rotel tomatoes, beef broth, and tomato sauce.
Stir everything together, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow the sauce to cook for about 5-7 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
While the sauce simmers, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Once the sauce has thickened slightly, add the cooked spaghetti into the skillet, stirring to coat the pasta with the sauce.
Continue to cook everything together for another 2-3 minutes so the pasta absorbs some of the flavors.
Afterward, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta and let it melt, giving the dish a creamy, cheesy finish.
Top the taco spaghetti with diced red onion and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a burst of color and freshness before serving.
How to Make
To make taco spaghetti, start by preparing the ingredients and ensuring everything is within reach. The key to a smooth cooking process is having your spices, meat, and canned ingredients ready to go.
Cooking the ground beef thoroughly is important to avoid any excess grease, which can make the dish overly greasy. Drain the fat and continue with the seasoning to build layers of flavor.
Simmering the sauce with the diced tomatoes and beef broth is an essential step for infusing the pasta with taco-inspired flavors. The longer you let it cook, the more flavorful the sauce will become.
Use high-quality taco seasoning, or create your own blend using chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika to control the heat and seasoning levels to suit your taste.
When adding the pasta to the skillet, gently toss the spaghetti to coat it evenly in the sauce. It’s important to let the pasta cook in the sauce for a few minutes to absorb all the flavors.
Don’t skip the cheese! A generous amount of cheddar cheese creates a gooey, comforting texture that brings the dish together. Let it melt evenly for that perfect cheesy finish.
Finally, garnish with fresh cilantro and diced red onion. These elements add a crunch and bright flavor that perfectly balance the richness of the dish.
Tips
For a spicier dish, you can add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the taco seasoning blend. This will elevate the heat level and make it more flavorful for those who enjoy a bit of kick.
If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef, which will reduce the fat content without sacrificing flavor.
To make the dish even more nutritious, try adding in vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or corn when cooking the beef.
These additions will provide extra texture and nutrients.
For a creamier version, add a bit of cream cheese or sour cream to the sauce just before combining with the pasta. This will create a rich, velvety finish.
For a smoky twist, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a few dashes of liquid smoke to the taco seasoning.
This will give the dish a deeper, more complex flavor profile.
If you’re serving a crowd, consider doubling the recipe to ensure you have plenty of food.
Taco spaghetti is easy to scale up, and leftovers can be enjoyed the next day.
Feel free to customize the toppings as well. Avocado, sliced olives, or even a drizzle of lime juice can add a fresh, vibrant touch to the finished dish.
Conclusion
Taco spaghetti is an easy, flavorful meal that can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary preferences.
The dish brings together the best of two classic favorites: pasta and tacos, making it a crowd-pleaser at any dinner table.
With its quick preparation and the option for customization, taco spaghetti is a must-try for anyone looking.
to add a bit of excitement to their weekly meal rotation. The combination of cheesy, savory, and zesty flavors will surely satisfy your cravings.