If you’re searching for a fast, flavor-packed weeknight dinner that’ll make the whole family cheer, look no further than Best Taco Spaghetti! This irresistible fusion of saucy spaghetti and classic taco flavors is an absolute crowd-pleaser, marrying gooey cheese, zesty beef, and just a hint of spice. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or a hungry crowd, this dish promises pure comfort and bold taste in every twirled forkful. Trust me, it’s about to become your new favorite go-to meal!

Best Taco Spaghetti Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Best Taco Spaghetti lies in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each plays a crucial role, delivering everything from satisfying texture to those crave-worthy layers of flavor and color.

Spaghetti Pasta (8 ounces): Choose regular or gluten-free spaghetti as the hearty foundation for this fusion dish.
Ground Beef (1 pound): The savory star, adding richness and protein—opt for lean beef for lighter results.
Onion, diced (1 small): Builds a sweet and aromatic base for the skillet sauce.
Garlic, minced (3 cloves): Fresh garlic brightens and deepens the overall flavor.
Taco Seasoning Mix (1 packet): Brings all the classic, zesty taco spices—use your favorite blend for perfect heat.
Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz): Adds juicy bursts of acidity and color, tying the sauce together.
Tomato Sauce (1 can, 8 oz): Lends a creamy consistency and rich tomato base.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): Melty, sharp, and utterly comforting; real cheddar melts best!
Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese (1 cup): Smooth, creamy, and adds that irresistible cheese pull.
Beef Broth (½ cup): Deepens flavor and keeps everything luscious without drying out.
Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): For sautéing aromatics and building savory intensity.
Salt and Pepper to taste: Essential for rounding out all the other bold flavors.
Chopped Fresh Cilantro (optional): Adds a bright, herbal pop as a final flourish.
Sliced Jalapeños (optional): Offers extra heat and crunch for spice lovers.

How to Make Best Taco Spaghetti

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Start things off with a bubbling pot of salted water. Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente—still with a bit of bite! Drain the pasta well and set it aside; you’ll want it ready when the saucy magic happens.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat up your olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, letting them cook for about 2–3 minutes. You’re looking for the onion to become soft and translucent, and for the garlic to release its irresistible aroma. This simple step lays down a flavorful foundation for the Best Taco Spaghetti.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Scoot the onions and garlic to the side and add the ground beef into the same skillet. Break it up with your spoon or spatula and let it brown evenly—this usually takes around 7–8 minutes. Once the beef loses its pink hue and develops those delicious caramelized bits, drain off any excess fat if you’d like a lighter sauce.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Sprinkle in the taco seasoning mix, then add the canned diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Give everything a good stir. Bring this bubbling mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes—just enough time for all those flavors to blend and the sauce to thicken a bit.

Step 5: Combine with Spaghetti and Cheese

Add your cooked spaghetti directly to the skillet, tossing to fully coat every noodle in that luscious taco sauce. Sprinkle in half the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring until they’re melty and blended into the pasta. You’ll see the cheese pull start to happen—pure magic!

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Transfer your saucy, cheesy creation to a serving dish or keep it right in the skillet for a rustic family-style presentation. Sprinkle the remaining cheeses over the top, and watch them start to melt into gooey perfection from the heat. Top it all with chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños if the mood strikes. Serve Best Taco Spaghetti warm and get ready to watch it disappear!

How to Serve Best Taco Spaghetti

Garnishes

Make your Best Taco Spaghetti irresistible—and visually stunning—by showering it with fresh cilantro and a handful of sliced jalapeños. These bright toppings cut through the richness and add festive color. For extra indulgence, try a cool dollop of sour cream or a few crushed corn chips for crunch!

Side Dishes

This meal shines alongside simple sides. Pair it with a crisp green salad to balance the bold flavors, or try a scoop of guacamole and some warm tortilla chips for a Tex-Mex twist. Mexican street corn (elote) or a quick black bean salad also make delicious, vibrant accompaniments that keep the theme going.

Creative Ways to Present

For fun single servings, scoop Best Taco Spaghetti into bowls and let everyone garnish their own with their favorite toppings. Hosting a party? Serve it “taco bar” style with different extras on the side. For a lunchbox upgrade, tuck leftovers into thermoses for a cozy midday treat. However you serve it, expect plenty of oohs and aahs!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Best Taco Spaghetti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors meld and get even more delicious overnight, making next-day lunches and easy weeknight dinners a total breeze.

Freezing

If you want to get ahead on meal prep, this dish freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. It’ll keep its texture and flavor for up to 2 months—ideal for unexpected busy evenings.

Reheating

To reheat, simply pop portions in the microwave (covered) for 1–2 minutes, or simmer gently in a skillet with a splash of beef broth to loosen the sauce. Add an extra sprinkle of cheese before serving to bring back that fresh, melty magic!

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives and soak up the taco flavors just as well—your Best Taco Spaghetti will still be bursting with taste.

How can I make Best Taco Spaghetti gluten-free?

It’s as simple as swapping in your favorite gluten-free spaghetti. Double-check that your taco seasoning is gluten-free too, and you’re set for a safe and tasty meal.

Is there a vegetarian version of Best Taco Spaghetti?

You can make a fantastic veggie variation by using plant-based ground “meat” or crumbled tofu. Add extra beans or corn for texture and bulk if you wish. The robust sauce and cheese keep it just as comforting!

Can I make Best Taco Spaghetti ahead for a party?

Definitely! Prepare the dish up until the final cheese topping, then cover and refrigerate. When it’s party time, pop it in the oven at 350°F until hot and bubbly, top with cheese, and serve—so easy and totally stress-free.

What toppings work well besides jalapeños and cilantro?

Best Taco Spaghetti loves customization: try sliced green onions, diced avocado, crushed tortilla chips, or even a drizzle of hot sauce. Let everyone load up their bowl with their favorites for a personalized twist.

Final Thoughts

Best Taco Spaghetti is comfort food at its boldest and most joyful. Whether you serve it straight from the pan or let guests build their own bowl, everyone will be asking for seconds (and maybe thirds!). Give it a whirl and discover a new recipe that’s bound to earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation—your taste buds will thank you!

Best Taco Spaghetti Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 13 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Best Taco Spaghetti recipe combines the flavors of tacos with a comforting pasta dish. It’s a cheesy, flavorful meal that’s perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Spaghetti:

8 ounces spaghetti pasta

Taco Meat:

1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet taco seasoning mix
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
1/2 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Cheese:

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Garnish:

Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Sliced jalapeños for serving (optional)

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Instructions

Cook Spaghetti: Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
Sauté Onion, Garlic, and Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 7-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add Seasonings and Tomatoes: Stir in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
Combine and Melt Cheese: Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to combine. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and well mixed.
Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle remaining cheese on top. Garnish with fresh cilantro and sliced jalapeños if desired. Serve warm.