If you’ve ever struggled to pick between Taco Tuesday and pasta night, let this Taco Spaghetti swoop in and save dinner. It’s a bold, cozy mashup that brings together everything you love about tacos—with all the cheesy, carby comfort of spaghetti—cooked up in just one pot.
Think: perfectly seasoned beef simmered with spicy tomatoes and green chilis, twirled together with tender noodles, and topped with a gooey layer of melted cheese.
It’s hearty, fun, and totally satisfying—plus, it keeps cleanup super easy. Whether you’re feeding a crew or just want something flavorful and fast, this dish has you covered.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tacos + spaghetti = ultimate comfort food combo
- One pot means fewer dishes, more deliciousness
- Ready in around 30 minutes
- Easy to tweak with your fave toppings or spice level
- Big hit with both kids and grown-ups
Taco Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
- Equipment Needed: Large deep skillet or Dutch oven, wooden spoon, measuring cups/spoons, knife & cutting board
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces uncooked spaghetti noodles
- 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 can fire-roasted Rotel (with green chilis)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 3 cups water
- 1 cup shredded Fiesta blend or Taco blend cheese
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Brown the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add Flavor Base: Stir in the tomato paste, Rotel (do not drain), and taco seasoning. Mix well to coat the beef evenly with the seasonings and tomato blend.
- Simmer the Pasta: Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Break the spaghetti in half and add it directly into the pot, pressing it down slightly so it’s submerged. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook Until Tender: Cover the skillet, reduce heat to low, and simmer for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked to your liking and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Cheesy Finish: Give everything a good stir, then sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. Cover again for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with chopped green onions or parsley. Serve hot, straight from the pot!
Pro Tips:
- Add a splash of lime juice at the end for a bright, zesty finish.
- For an extra kick, toss in some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Want to boost the veggies? Stir in some frozen corn or black beans with the pasta.
- Swap spaghetti for short pasta like rotini or penne for a fun twist.
- Use freshly grated cheese for better melt and flavor—it makes a difference!
Taco Spaghetti
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces uncooked spaghetti noodles
- 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 can fire-roasted Rotel (with green chilis)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 3 cups water
- 1 cup shredded Fiesta blend or Taco blend cheese
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add Flavor Base: Stir in the tomato paste, Rotel (do not drain), and taco seasoning. Mix well to coat the beef evenly with the seasonings and tomato blend.
- Simmer the Pasta: Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Break the spaghetti in half and add it directly into the pot, pressing it down slightly so it’s submerged. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook Until Tender: Cover the skillet, reduce heat to low, and simmer for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked to your liking and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Cheesy Finish: Give everything a good stir, then sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. Cover again for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with chopped green onions or parsley. Serve hot, straight from the pot!
Notes
- Flavor boost: Feel free to toss in some chopped onion or garlic while you’re browning the beef.
- Toppings are your friend: A dollop of sour cream or some fresh salsa on top adds great flavor and texture.
- Veggie power: Want more veggies? Sauté some bell peppers or onions with the ground beef. Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
