Taco Spaghetti

 

Taco Spaghetti

A bold Tex-Mex twist on a classic pasta favorite!

Looking for a dinner that’s quick, comforting, and packed with flavor? This Taco Spaghetti blends the cheesy, zesty goodness of tacos with the slurpy satisfaction of spaghetti—all in one skillet. It’s family-friendly, budget-friendly, and ready in under 30 minutes.

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🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 8 oz spaghetti (or pasta of choice)

• 1 lb ground beef, turkey, or plant-based alternative

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2–3 tbsp homemade taco spice mix)

• 1 cup tomato sauce or marinara

• 1 cup beef, chicken, or vegetable broth

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)

• ½ cup canned black beans (optional)

• ½ cup corn kernels (optional)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

Optional toppings:

• Chopped green onions

• Sliced jalapeños

• Sour cream

• Fresh cilantro

• Crushed tortilla chips for crunch

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🔪 Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti

Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Brown the Meat

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or turkey/plant-based crumbles) until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

3. Add Onion & Garlic

Stir in diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.

4. Season

Sprinkle in taco seasoning and stir to evenly coat the meat mixture.

5. Simmer the Sauce

Pour in tomato sauce and broth. Stir well, bring to a simmer, and cook for 5–7 minutes, until slightly thickened.

6. Mix in Beans & Corn (Optional)

Add black beans and corn for extra flavor and texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Combine Pasta & Cheese

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss everything together until well-coated. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

8. Serve & Top

Serve hot and top with your favorite garnishes—like sour cream, cilantro, jalapeños, or an extra sprinkle of cheese.

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💡 Tips & Variations

• Vegetarian? Use plant-based crumbles and veggie broth.

• Gluten-free? Swap in gluten-free pasta and check your taco seasoning.

• Add a kick: A dash of hot sauce or a squeeze of lime takes it to the next level.

• One-pot option: Boil pasta separately, then toss it right into the skillet—less cleanup, more flavor.

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This cheesy, saucy Taco Spaghetti is comfort food with a kick—and you’ll be surprised how fast it disappears. 🌶️🧀