Description
This Taco Spaghetti recipe is a flavorful fusion dish combining the zest of Tex-Mex flavors with classic spaghetti. Ground beef is seasoned with taco spices and simmered with tomatoes, beans, and corn, then tossed with spaghetti and topped with melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. It’s an easy, hearty weeknight meal perfect for the whole family.
Ingredients
Scale
Spaghetti
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Protein and Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 3 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
Vegetables and Beans
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 cup black beans (drained and rinsed)
Cheese & Garnishes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 green onions (sliced)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5–6 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add Seasonings and Sauces: Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes to develop flavor.
- Add Corn and Beans: Stir in the frozen corn and rinsed black beans, mixing well to combine all ingredients.
- Combine with Spaghetti: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Add Cheese and Melt: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the top of the spaghetti mixture. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts thoroughly.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle sliced green onions and fresh cilantro on top before serving warm.
Notes
- For a creamier version, stir in 1/2 cup sour cream or cream cheese at the end.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and reheated, making it convenient for meal prep.
- Adjust the spice level by choosing mild or hot diced tomatoes with green chilies.
- For a dairy-free alternative, omit the cheese or use dairy-free cheese options.
