Taco Spaghetti is a fun, creative twist on traditional pasta, bringing together the bold flavors of taco seasoning, ground beef, and gooey cheese. This one-pan wonder is the perfect weeknight dinner that the whole family will love. It’s quick, easy, and packed with the savory goodness of taco seasoning mixed with spaghetti noodles—making it a delicious fusion of two favorite comfort foods.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Taco Spaghetti is the ideal weeknight meal: it’s easy to make, full of flavor, and satisfies everyone at the table. The taco seasoning gives the dish a zesty kick, while the combination of beef, pasta, and cheese creates a hearty, comforting meal. It’s a kid-friendly recipe that’s quick enough to prepare after a busy day. Plus, the use of pantry staples means you likely have everything on hand already! Taco Spaghetti

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1/4 cup yellow onions, chopped
1/4 cup taco seasoning (1 packet)
10 ounces Rotel tomatoes (with juice)
8 ounces spaghetti noodles, uncooked
3 cups water
4 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup cilantro, chopped

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

Directions

Heat olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat.
Brown the ground beef and onion in the skillet until the meat is no longer pink and the onions are soft and translucent.
Add the taco seasoning, Rotel tomatoes (with juice), spaghetti noodles, and water to the skillet.
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Remove from heat. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the pan and stir to distribute the cheese and pasta evenly.
Top with the remaining cheese and chopped cilantro. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Variations

Protein Swap: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for the ground beef for a different take on Taco Spaghetti.
Spicy Kick: For extra heat, add a diced jalapeño or a few dashes of hot sauce when you add the taco seasoning.
Vegetarian: Skip the meat and add extra veggies, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms, for a vegetarian version of Taco Spaghetti.
Cheese: Try using a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a creamy, melty topping.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Let Taco Spaghetti cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to loosen up the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use any type of pasta for Taco Spaghetti?

Yes, while spaghetti noodles are traditional, you can use other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or fusilli if you prefer.

Can I make Taco Spaghetti ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Taco Spaghetti in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

Can I freeze Taco Spaghetti?

Yes, Taco Spaghetti freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove.

Is Taco Spaghetti spicy?

The level of spiciness depends on the taco seasoning you use and any additional ingredients like hot sauce or jalapeños. Adjust the heat according to your preference.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of Rotel?

Yes, you can use fresh diced tomatoes and add a bit of seasoning (like chili powder and garlic powder) to mimic the flavor of Rotel.

Can I make Taco Spaghetti without cheese?

While cheese adds a creamy, melty layer of flavor, you can leave it out or use a dairy-free alternative to suit your dietary needs.

Can I use whole wheat spaghetti?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier version, though the cooking time may vary slightly.

Can I use a different seasoning mix instead of taco seasoning?

You can use your own homemade taco seasoning or even a fajita seasoning mix if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How can I make Taco Spaghetti more filling?

For a heartier meal, add a can of black beans or pinto beans to the dish, or serve it with a side of rice for a complete meal.

Can I double the recipe to feed a crowd?

Yes, Taco Spaghetti scales easily. Just double the ingredients and cook in a larger skillet or divide it between two pans.

Conclusion

Taco Spaghetti is a simple, flavorful meal that brings together the best of taco night and pasta night in one dish. It’s quick, satisfying, and guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family. With its savory beef, tangy taco seasoning, and melty cheese, Taco Spaghetti is a comforting weeknight dinner that’s both delicious and easy to make.

Emma