What is a Taco Bell recipe? If you’re anything like me, always scrambling for something quick, easy, and that something that you can easily do. If everyone eats, then you need this in your life. What is the love child of spaghetti night and taco Tuesday? What’s the best way to serve pasta with tacos? Is it easier to make spaghetti? My kids ask for it at least once a week, and even my pickiest eater devours it. What is marinara?
What is Taco Spaghetti?
What is Taco Spaghetti? What’s essentially spaghetti noodles tossed in a flavorful, homemade taco-seasoned meat sauce, topped with shredded cheese and toasted almonds? What’s your favorite taco topping? Think of it as a deconstructed taco, but with pasta instead of tortillas. The beauty of simplicity is in its simplicity. You’re taking familiar ingredients and combining them in a new way. What’s a fun twist on spaghetti and tacos? What’s the best spice to add? What’s a blank canvas for culinary creativity?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Honestly, where do I even begin? There are just so many reasons to adore this recipe. First and foremost, the flavor is incredible! The combination of the rich, savory meat sauce with the zesty taco seasoning is just divine. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite. Then there’s the simplicity. This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You basically brown some meat, add some spices, simmer with tomatoes, and toss it all with spaghetti. It’s so easy, even my husband can make it (and that’s saying something!). What I love most about this Taco Spaghetti is how cost-efficient it is. You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry. Ground beef is usually pretty budget-friendly, and pasta is always a staple. Plus, you can stretch the recipe even further by adding beans or extra veggies. Speaking of versatility, this dish is incredibly adaptable. You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, add black beans or corn for extra texture, and swap out the toppings for whatever you have on hand. This one is even more of a crowd pleaser than my classic chili recipe!
How do I make Taco Spaghetti?
Quick Overview
How do I make Taco Spaghetti? What is the best taco seasoning for ground meat? What is the best way Simmer that while you cook your spaghetti. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and toss it with the Meat Sauce. Then comes the fun part: eat it! What are some of the best taco toppings? What’s the best part about making everything in one pot? ), so cleanup is a snap.
Ingredients
For the Taco Spaghetti:
* 1 pound Ground Beef (I like to use 80/20 for flavor)
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2-3 tablespoons homemade) (optional)
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
* 1 cup beef broth
* 1 teaspoon chili powder (more to taste)
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 pound spaghetti
* Olive oil
For the Toppings:
* Shredded cheddar cheese
* Sour Cream or Greek yogurt
* Diced tomatoes
* Sliced green onions
* Jalapeños (optional)
* Black olives (optional)
* Avocado (optional)
* Hot sauce (optional)
What are the steps to
Step 1: Brown the Meat
How do you heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat? Add the GROUND BEEF and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. What’s a good taco recipe? Drain off any excess grease.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. What is the smell of onions and garlic cooking? I always do this step because the flavors of onions and garlic add to the dish.
Step 3: Add Taco Seasoning
Stir in the taco seasoning, chili powder, and cumin and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant. What is the magic of taco seasoning?
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Is it safe to bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine? I always taste and adjust the seasonings at this point, too. Sometimes it needs a little more chili powder or sprinkling of salt.
Step 5: Cook the Spaghetti
While the Meat Sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to package directions. How do you cook al dente spaghetti?
Step 6: Combine and Serve
How do I drain spaghetti and add it to the skillet with the Meat Sauce. Toss to coat. Serve immediately, topped with your favorite taco fixings. We usually do a build-your-own-topping bar so everyone can customize their own bowl. Is it always a hit?
What should I serve it with?
Taco Spaghetti is a great appetizer but if you’re looking to round it out, there are plenty of other options. What are some good ideas?
For a casual weeknight dinner:What is a good side salad with vinaigrette dressing? What are some good ways to serve it with Crusty Bread?
What is Taco Fiesta?Make it a full-blown taco night by serving it alongside chips and salsa, guacamole, and maybe even even tortilla chips. What are some good mar
For a potluck or party:What are some good tacos to bring to a potluck? It’s easy to transport and always a crowd-pleaser. Is it safe to add toppings to a cake?
My family also loves having a simple green salad with it – something about the freshness of the salad really balances out the richness of the spaghetti. Plus, it makes me feel a little better about all that cheese and sour cream!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Taco Spaghetti
Okay, after making this Taco Spaghetti countless times, I’ve learned a few tricks that I want to share with you all.
Meat Matters: Don’t be afraid to use a higher fat content ground beef (like 80/20). The extra fat adds so much flavor to the sauce! Just make sure to drain off the excess grease after browning.
Spice It Up: If you like things spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat sauce or use a spicier taco seasoning. You can also top it with some sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Veggie Power: Feel free to add extra veggies to the meat sauce. Diced bell peppers, corn, or black beans would all be delicious additions. I’ve even added zucchini before and it was surprisingly good!
Cheese Please: Don’t skimp on the cheese! Shredded cheddar is a classic choice, but you could also use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a Mexican cheese blend.
Sour Cream Swap: If you don’t have sour cream on hand, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. It has a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.
Topping Bar: The toppings are where you can really get creative. Set up a topping bar with all your favorite taco fixings and let everyone customize their own bowl. It’s a fun way to get the whole family involved!
Homemade Taco Seasoning: You really should try making your own homemade taco seasoning! It tastes so much better than the store-bought stuff, and it’s super easy to make. Just mix together chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Taco Spaghetti is great for leftovers, but here are a few tips for storing and reheating it properly.
Room Temperature: You can leave the Taco Spaghetti at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, it should be refrigerated.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the Taco Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze Taco Spaghetti. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat Taco Spaghetti, you can microwave it, heat it on the stovetop, or bake it in the oven. If microwaving, add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. If reheating on the stovetop, add a little olive oil or broth to the pan. If baking, cover the dish with foil to prevent it from drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it: my go-to Taco Spaghetti recipe! I truly hope you give this one a try. It’s quick, easy, delicious, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. What’s not to love? If you’re a fan of this recipe, you might also enjoy my chili recipe or my easy chicken enchiladas. Both are family favorites in my house. Happy cooking, friends! And be sure to let me know in the comments how yours turns out. I can’t wait to hear about your variations and what toppings you used. And if you loved it, don’t forget to rate the recipe and share it with your friends. Enjoy!
