If you are looking for a fun and comforting twist on two beloved classics, this Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Recipe is just what you need! Imagine the irresistible flavors of taco seasoning and diced tomatoes mingling perfectly with tender spaghetti noodles, all smothered in a rich, melty layer of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. It’s like a fiesta in your skillet that comes together in under 30 minutes, delivering bold flavor and satisfying textures in every bite. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that combines the heartiness of pasta with the zesty excitement of taco night, guaranteed to brighten up any weeknight dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Recipe just right is all about choosing simple, flavorful ingredients that each play a crucial role. From the savory ground beef to the sharp spices, and those luscious cheeses that bring everything together, every item adds its own special touch to this harmonious dish.
- 12 oz spaghetti (uncooked): Breaking the spaghetti in half helps it cook evenly in the skillet and makes it easier to serve.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides the rich, meaty base that makes the dish hearty and filling.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor when cooked with the beef.
- 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 oz): Brings that signature taco spice blend to elevate every mouthful.
- 10 oz can diced tomatoes with green chiles (undrained): Offers a juicy, slightly spicy kick along with bright tomato flavor.
- 1 cup salsa: Adds moisture, tang, and a complexity of fresh tomato and pepper taste.
- 3 cups water: Essential for simmering the pasta perfectly in the skillet without drying out.
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Brings sharp, creamy richness that melts beautifully into the pasta.
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese: Adds a milder, buttery meltiness to balance out the sharp cheddar.
How to Make Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Beef and Onions
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat, then cook your ground beef alongside the diced onions until both are nicely browned and cooked through. This is where you build the savory foundation of flavor, so be sure to break up the beef well as it cooks and drain any excess fat to keep the final dish from getting greasy.
Step 2: Add Seasoning and Liquids
Next, stir in the taco seasoning mix, diced tomatoes with green chiles (with all the delicious juices), salsa, and water. Mix everything thoroughly so those fantastic taco spices infuse the mixture, and you have a flavorful broth for cooking the spaghetti.
Step 3: Incorporate the Spaghetti
Now, break the uncooked spaghetti noodles in half and add them directly to the skillet. Make sure the noodles are fully submerged in the liquid. This step allows the pasta to absorb all those spicy, tomatoey flavors as it cooks.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
Bring the skillet contents to a boil, then lower the heat to medium-low and cover with a lid. Let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep the noodles from sticking and ensure even cooking. You’ll know it’s ready when the spaghetti is perfectly tender and has soaked up most of the liquid.
Step 5: Melt in the Cheese
Finally, stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until they melt into a luscious, creamy sauce that coats every strand of pasta. This is the moment when your dish becomes irresistibly cheesy and comforting.
Step 6: Serve Hot and Enjoy
Your Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Recipe is ready to be served! Scoop generous portions onto plates and get ready for a fiesta of flavors.
How to Serve Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your dish with fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream. A sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips adds a crunchy contrast that’s delightful against the creamy pasta.
Side Dishes
This cheesy taco spaghetti pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed in a bright lime vinaigrette or some warm, flaky garlic bread to soak up any extra cheesy sauce. For a heartier meal, roasted veggies or Mexican-style street corn also complement the flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, try serving the dish in individual mini cast iron skillets or ramekins for a rustic, crowd-pleasing presentation. Another fun idea is layering the spaghetti in a casserole dish, topping with extra cheese and baking until bubbly for a party-ready bake.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To prevent excess moisture, consider leaving out the cheese when freezing and add fresh shredded cheese upon reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce as needed. Alternatively, microwave in 1-minute increments, stirring in between, until warmed through and cheesy once again.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and offers a leaner option while still complementing the bold taco flavors perfectly.
Is it necessary to use diced tomatoes with green chiles?
They add a nice mild heat and extra flavor, but plain diced tomatoes will work too if you prefer less spice.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Sure thing! Just swap regular spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that your taco seasoning is gluten-free.
What can I add to make it spicier?
If you like heat, toss in some chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to kick up the spice level.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You can prep the meat and sauce ahead of time and combine with fresh pasta when ready to cook for a quicker dinner.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Recipe is a total game-changer for anyone who loves bold flavors with minimal fuss. Whether you’re feeding a family or just craving something truly comforting and fun, this dish brings all the delicious taco flavors together with cheesy pasta goodness in a way that warms your heart and fills your belly. Give it a try and make it a new favorite in your recipe rotation—you won’t regret it!
Print
Cheesy 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
Description
This Cheesy, Flavor-Packed Taco Spaghetti combines the bold flavors of taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chiles, and salsa with tender spaghetti pasta and melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. A quick and hearty one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights, it offers a delicious twist on traditional spaghetti by infusing it with vibrant Mexican-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti (uncooked)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 oz)
- 10 oz can diced tomatoes with green chiles (undrained)
- 1 cup salsa
- 3 cups water
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed to reduce grease.
- Add Seasoning and Liquids: Stir in the taco seasoning, undrained diced tomatoes with green chiles, salsa, and water. Mix thoroughly to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Add Pasta: Break the uncooked spaghetti in half and add it directly to the skillet. Stir to ensure the pasta is completely submerged in the liquid mixture for even cooking.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Add Cheese: Remove the lid and stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until they melt completely, forming a creamy and cheesy sauce.
- Serve: Serve the taco spaghetti hot, optionally topped with your favorite garnishes such as chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, sour cream, or avocado slices.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, add some chopped jalapeños or hot sauce when adding salsa.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Use gluten-free spaghetti to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water if the pasta seems dry.
