If you’re craving something that brings together the best of two worlds—Mexican zest and Italian comfort—then this Taco Spaghetti Recipe is your new weeknight hero. Imagine tender strands of spaghetti swirling through a lively sauce packed with seasoned ground beef, sweet corn, black beans, and just the right touch of spice from diced green chilies. The melty cheddar cheese topping seals the deal, giving you a warm, cheesy hug in every bite. It’s quick, easy, and loaded with flavors that the whole family will adore, making it a perfect fusion dish that’s anything but ordinary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret behind this irresistible Taco Spaghetti Recipe. Each component plays a vital role—from the savory, seasoned ground beef to the fresh bursts of corn and black beans, they all come together to create a dish that’s rich in texture, flavor, and color.
- 12 ounces spaghetti: The classic pasta base that carries all those vibrant flavors beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the meat and soften the onions without overpowering the dish.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein that brings a savory depth and satisfying texture.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic foundation.
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix: The magic blend of spices that gives this dish its unmistakable taco flair.
- 1 cup water: Helps to simmer and meld the flavors into a luscious sauce.
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies: Offers a zesty kick and a bit of tang to brighten the dish.
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce: Provides richness and a velvety texture to the sauce.
- 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or canned, drained): Adds a pop of sweetness and a fun crunch.
- 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed: Boosts protein and fiber while bringing a creamy contrast.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: The gooey, melty topping that makes every bite comforting and delicious.
- Fresh cilantro and sliced jalapeños for garnish (optional): For a fresh herbal note and an extra spicy kick if you like it hot.
How to Make Taco Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the spaghetti. Cooking it al dente is key—it ensures your noodles have just the right bite so they stand up perfectly once tossed with the rich taco sauce. Once done, drain and set aside to wait for the savory mixture.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onion
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the ground beef and diced onion and cook until the beef is nicely browned and the onion softens, releasing that wonderful aroma that promises great things ahead. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from feeling too heavy.
Step 3: Add Taco Seasoning and Simmer
Stir in the taco seasoning mix and pour in the water. Let this simmer gently for a couple of minutes. This step infuses the beef with the bold, smoky spices that define the taco flavor profile you love.
Step 4: Mix in Tomatoes, Tomato Sauce, Corn, and Black Beans
Now, add the diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, corn, and black beans. Turn down the heat to medium and let everything simmer together for around five minutes. This allows those vibrant flavors to marry perfectly, making the sauce both hearty and fresh.
Step 5: Combine Spaghetti with the Taco Mixture
Introduce the cooked spaghetti to your flavorful skillet. Toss everything together so that every strand of pasta is coated with that irresistible taco-infused sauce. This melding of textures and tastes is where the Taco Spaghetti Recipe truly shines.
Step 6: Melt the Cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese liberally over the pasta. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts into delicious gooeyness. This cheesy blanket is what makes each serving feel like a warm embrace.
How to Serve Taco Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro leaves and sliced jalapeños add the perfect finishing touch to this dish. The cilantro brings a refreshing green note, while the jalapeños deliver optional heat that can elevate the taco vibe. Don’t be shy with the garnishes—they make every bite pop!
Side Dishes
Keep it simple and let the main dish shine by pairing it with a crisp green salad or some crunchy tortilla chips. Mexican street corn or a side of guacamole can also complement the taco flavors beautifully, turning your meal into a fiesta.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Transform your Taco Spaghetti Recipe into a baked casserole by layering the mixture in a baking dish, topping it with extra cheese, and finishing in a hot oven until bubbly and golden. Or serve in small bowls with avocado slices and a dollop of sour cream for a fun taco twist that’s both familiar and fresh.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Taco Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the next-day meal even better. Just be sure to reheat thoroughly for the best experience.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to prep in advance. Allow it to cool completely, then freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for an easy dinner rescue.
Reheating
Reheat leftover Taco Spaghetti gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to restore creaminess. Cover during reheating to keep the cheese melty and the pasta moist.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work wonderfully in this Taco Spaghetti Recipe, offering a lighter protein option without sacrificing flavor.
How spicy is this dish?
The heat level is moderate thanks to the green chilies in the diced tomatoes. You can easily adjust the spice by adding jalapeños or cayenne pepper to suit your taste preferences.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or add extra beans and vegetables like bell peppers to keep it hearty and satisfying.
Is this dish suitable for kids?
This Taco Spaghetti Recipe is kid-friendly, especially if you go light on the jalapeños and serve with familiar sides. The cheesy, mild flavors tend to be a hit with little ones.
What can I serve with this dish to make it a full meal?
Pair Taco Spaghetti with a fresh salad, some guacamole, or classic Mexican sides like rice and beans to round out the meal beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly joyful about uncovering a dish as comforting and flavorful as this Taco Spaghetti Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of familiar tastes and surprising flair that can transform any ordinary night into something special. Whether feeding a hungry family or impressing friends, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. So grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy a deliciously unique twist on two classic dishes!
Print
Taco Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This Taco Spaghetti recipe is a flavorful fusion of classic Mexican taco ingredients and Italian pasta, making for a deliciously easy and hearty weeknight meal. Ground beef cooked with taco seasoning, onions, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and black beans is combined with spaghetti noodles and topped with melted cheddar cheese. Garnished with fresh cilantro and jalapeños, it’s a crowd-pleasing main course that’s perfect for families and taco lovers looking for a fun twist.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces spaghetti
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 cup water
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
Additional Ingredients
- 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or canned, drained)
- 1 cup canned black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Optional Garnish
- Fresh cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños
Instructions
- Cook Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
- Brown Meat and Onion: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef is fully browned and the onion has softened. Drain excess grease from the skillet.
- Add Seasoning and Simmer: Stir in the taco seasoning packet and water, then simmer the mixture for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add Vegetables and Beans: Mix in diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, corn kernels, and black beans. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors further.
- Combine with Spaghetti: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss thoroughly to combine with the taco beef mixture.
- Melt Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the pasta mixture. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and sliced jalapeños if desired, then serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef for a lighter option.
- For extra heat, use hot diced tomatoes with green chilies or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- This dish can be adapted into a baked casserole by layering the mixture in a casserole dish, topping with cheese, and baking until bubbly and golden.
