Taco Spaghetti

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Taco Spaghetti is a fun and flavorful mashup that combines all the bold, zesty flavors of tacos with the comfort of cheesy pasta. With seasoned ground beef, salsa, taco spices, and melted cheese tossed with spaghetti, this one-pot dinner is quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights. It’s kid-friendly, endlessly customizable, and irresistibly delicious.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

spaghetti
ground beef
onion (chopped)
garlic (minced)
taco seasoning
salsa or diced tomatoes with green chiles
beef broth or water
shredded cheddar cheese
cream cheese or sour cream (optional, for creaminess)
olive oil
salt
black pepper
optional: green onions, cilantro, jalapeños, or crushed tortilla chips for topping

directions

Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened.

Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.

Stir in garlic and taco seasoning, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.

Add salsa and beef broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.

Add cooked spaghetti and toss to coat. Stir in cheddar cheese and cream cheese or sour cream, if using, until melted and creamy.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Top with your favorite garnishes and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Swap spaghetti for penne, rotini, or gluten-free pasta.
Add corn, black beans, or bell peppers for extra texture.
Make it spicy with hot salsa or diced jalapeños.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a skillet or microwave with a splash of broth or water to loosen.
Not ideal for freezing due to dairy, but can be done if omitting sour cream/cheese initially.

FAQs

Can I make Taco Spaghetti in one pot?
Yes—boil the pasta separately or cook it directly in the sauce using extra broth.

Is this dish spicy?
It depends on the salsa and taco seasoning—adjust to your taste.

Can I use jarred taco sauce instead of salsa?
Yes, taco sauce works well for a smoother texture.

What cheese is best?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend melt beautifully and add great flavor.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, use plant-based meat or beans instead of ground beef.

Do I need to use cream cheese or sour cream?
No, it’s optional—just makes the sauce creamier.

Can I add taco toppings?
Absolutely—crushed chips, olives, avocado, or shredded lettuce all work great.

What’s the best pasta to use?
Spaghetti is classic here, but any pasta shape will work.

Can I prep it ahead of time?
Yes—store the pasta and meat sauce separately and combine when reheating.

Is this dish kid-friendly?
Very! The cheesy, taco-inspired flavor is a hit with most kids.

Conclusion

Taco Spaghetti is a bold, cheesy, and satisfying twist on two family favorites—tacos and pasta. With easy prep and big flavor, it’s the perfect go-to when you want a quick meal that pleases everyone at the table. Customize it your way and enjoy every delicious, fork-twirling bite.

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