If you’re looking for a fun and comforting dish that combines the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine with the satisfying goodness of pasta, this Taco Spaghetti Recipe is going to become your new go-to meal. It’s like your favorite taco and a hearty spaghetti dinner joined forces in perfect harmony, delivering a dish that’s bursting with savory beef, tangy salsa, creamy sour cream, and melted cheddar—all tossed with tender spaghetti noodles. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe promises to bring smiles and full plates at your dinner table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, accessible ingredients is the secret to making a hearty Taco Spaghetti Recipe. Each item plays an important role, from the spiced ground beef giving it that classic taco flavor to the creamy sour cream adding luscious texture.
- 8 ounces spaghetti: This provides the perfect base—cooked al dente, it holds the sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a light richness for sautéing the beef and veggies.
- 1 pound ground beef: The star protein, delivering that juicy, savory taste.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant punch that elevates every bite.
- 1 packet taco seasoning: Brings the unmistakable bold and spicy taco flavor.
- 1/2 cup water: Helps to simmer the seasoning and meld flavors into a saucy base.
- 1 cup salsa: Adds tang and a lively tomato edge to the dish.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Creates a creamy richness that balances the spices.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melted on top for gooey, cheesy goodness.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions: Freshness and color to finish the dish.
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped: Adds a herbaceous kick and beautiful green contrast.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning to your liking.
How to Make Taco Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s tender yet firm to the bite. Drain well and set the noodles aside so they’re ready to absorb all those delicious taco flavors.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s beautifully browned and no longer pink. This step is key for building rich flavor and a hearty texture.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion softens and becomes translucent, about 3 minutes. This step unlocks sweetness and fragrance, laying the foundation for the savory sauce.
Step 4: Add Taco Seasoning and Simmer
Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the meat and pour in water. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, giving the seasoning time to bloom and the sauce to thicken slightly, creating a rich coating for the spaghetti.
Step 5: Mix in Salsa and Spaghetti
Pour in the salsa and add your cooked spaghetti directly to the skillet. Toss well to make sure every strand is nicely coated with the savory, tangy sauce. This melding of flavors is what makes the Taco Spaghetti Recipe uniquely delicious.
Step 6: Stir in Sour Cream
Lower the heat to low and stir in the sour cream until it’s fully combined. This creamy addition balances the spices beautifully, making the dish satisfyingly smooth and rich.
Step 7: Melt the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top and allow it to melt for 1 to 2 minutes. The melted cheese adds a gooey, indulgent layer that perfectly complements the savory taco flavors.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and finish by scattering chopped green onions and cilantro over the top. These fresh herbs add vibrant color and a refreshing contrast that brings your Taco Spaghetti Recipe to life.
How to Serve Taco Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
The finishing touches can really elevate your Taco Spaghetti Recipe. Besides the green onions and cilantro, consider adding a dollop of sour cream, sliced jalapeños for heat, or a squeeze of lime to brighten the dish even more. A sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips can add an irresistible crunch.
Side Dishes
This dish stands well on its own but also pairs wonderfully with simple sides. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette counters the richness nicely, while Mexican street corn or guacamole with chips can turn the meal into a full fiesta.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, you could serve the Taco Spaghetti Recipe in individual ramekins, sprinkled with colorful toppings for a festive presentation. Or, layer it in a casserole dish and broil it a bit to get a bubbly, golden top that looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Taco Spaghetti Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before reheating to keep it creamy and luscious.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes nicely. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking, or use the microwave on medium power. You may want to add a splash of water or extra sour cream to restore the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I make Taco Spaghetti Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap out the ground beef for plant-based crumbles, lentils, or even sautéed mushrooms to keep the same hearty texture and flavor profile without the meat.
What type of cheese works best?
While cheddar cheese is delicious and traditional for this recipe, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, pepper jack for some heat, or a Mexican blend for a different cheesy twist.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level mostly depends on the taco seasoning and salsa you choose. For a milder dish, use mild salsa and less seasoning; for more heat, pick a spicy salsa or add chili flakes.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a big group?
Yes! You can cook the Taco Spaghetti Recipe fully ahead and keep it warm covered in the oven or reheat it just before serving. It’s a crowd-pleaser that tastes great even when made in advance.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Definitely! Kids love the familiar flavors wrapped in spaghetti form. You can adjust the seasoning to be gentler and involve them in topping it with cheese for a fun meal experience.
Final Thoughts
This Taco Spaghetti Recipe is one of those wonderful dishes that feels like a hug on a plate, combining familiar flavors with inventive flair. It’s easy to make, satisfying to eat, and perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Give it a try, and I bet you’ll find yourself coming back for seconds, eager to share this tasty discovery with everyone you know.
Print
Taco Spaghetti Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Taco Spaghetti is a delicious fusion dish combining classic Italian pasta with bold Mexican flavors. Ground beef cooked with taco seasoning is mixed with spaghetti and salsa, then creamy sour cream and melted cheddar cheese add a rich finish. Garnished with fresh green onions and cilantro, this quick and easy recipe serves as a flavorful weeknight dinner perfect for the whole family.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces spaghetti
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Cheese and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Additional
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Brown Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is fully browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté until the onion becomes soft and translucent, around 3 minutes.
- Add Taco Seasoning and Water: Stir in the taco seasoning packet and 1/2 cup water. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine Salsa and Spaghetti: Add 1 cup of salsa along with the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly with the flavorful sauce.
- Incorporate Sour Cream: Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the sour cream thoroughly to add a creamy texture to the dish.
- Melt Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the pasta mixture and allow it to melt for 1-2 minutes over low heat.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with freshly chopped green onions and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately.
Notes
- Use full-fat sour cream for the creamiest texture; low-fat versions may alter the richness.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option.
- Add diced bell peppers or corn for extra vegetable nutrition and color.
- Adjust the level of spiciness by choosing mild or hot salsa.
- To make it gluten-free, opt for gluten-free spaghetti.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American Fusion
