There’s something magical about cold winter evenings that makes you crave a comforting bowl of something hearty, cheesy, and soul-warming. One dish that never fails to impress at my family table during the colder months is this Taco Spaghetti recipe—a vibrant fusion of bold Mexican flavors and classic Italian pasta. I first learned this one from my Aunt Rosa, who used to throw together leftovers in the most creative ways. She called it “Mexican-Italian magic,” and oh, was she right!
Today, I’m sharing a perfected version of that delightful kitchen experiment. It’s a quick, budget-friendly, and super flavorful recipe that combines everything you love about tacos—spicy ground beef, cheese, and seasoning—with the slurp-worthy appeal of spaghetti. Let’s get cooking!
Table of Contents
🕒 Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 6
🛒 Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this Taco Spaghetti recipe:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 8 oz (225g) spaghetti (half a standard box)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade—see below)
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sour cream
- Jalapeños
- Crushed tortilla chips
- Diced avocado
🌶 Homemade Taco Seasoning (optional)
If you want to skip the store-bought packet and make your own, here’s a simple and delicious blend:
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix and use it all in this recipe.
🍳 Instructions
1. Boil the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Beef
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink.
3. Add the Flavor
- Sprinkle in the taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade).
- Stir in diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, and beef broth.
- Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Combine with Spaghetti
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the beef mixture.
- Toss until everything is coated evenly in the taco sauce.
5. Cheese It Up
- Sprinkle both cheeses on top.
- Cover and let sit for 2-3 minutes off the heat, or pop the skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until bubbly and golden.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Top with fresh cilantro, sour cream, jalapeños, or avocado slices.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the cheesy, spicy, pasta perfection!
💡 Tips & Variations
- Make It Spicier: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce while cooking.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap ground beef for lentils or black beans.
- Add Veggies: Bell peppers, corn, or spinach are great mix-ins.
- Cheese Swaps: Try pepper jack for extra kick or mozzarella for a creamier melt.
🍽 What to Serve With Taco Spaghetti
This dish is satisfying on its own, but if you want to round out your meal:
- Side Salad: A crisp romaine and avocado salad with lime vinaigrette.
- Cornbread: Adds a sweet contrast.
- Roasted Veggies: Think roasted cauliflower or sweet potatoes.
🧊 Storing and Reheating
Refrigerate:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze:
- Cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
Reheat:
- Microwave individual portions or warm on the stove with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.
👩🍳 Why This Taco Spaghetti Recipe Works
- Quick to make: On the table in 35 minutes.
- One-pot friendly: Fewer dishes to clean up.
- Crowd-pleaser: Great for picky eaters and spice lovers alike.
- Customizable: Make it your own with toppings and add-ins.
🌎 Fusion Done Right
This Taco Spaghetti recipe isn’t just a gimmick. It represents the joyful blending of two comfort food traditions—Mexican tacos and Italian pasta. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, especially perfect for chilly nights when you want something hearty but exciting.
The rich beefy taco sauce, twirled around spaghetti, creates a dish that feels familiar but still fun and new. Serve it at your next family dinner or potluck and watch it disappear in minutes!
There’s something magical about cold winter evenings that makes you crave a comforting bowl of something hearty, cheesy, and soul-warming. One dish that never fails to impress at my family table during the colder months is this Taco Spaghetti recipe—a vibrant fusion of bold Mexican flavors and classic Italian pasta. I first learned this one from my Aunt Rosa, who used to throw together leftovers in the most creative ways. She called it “Mexican-Italian magic,” and oh, was she right!
If you’re into fusion comfort food like this, you might also love our Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup or Crockpot Mississippi Chicken—both perfect for cozy nights.
🔗 Related Recipes
If you loved this dish, you’ll also enjoy:
- Taco Bell Nacho Fries
- Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones
- Double Chocolate Sourdough Bread
- Banana Bread Cookies
- Boston Cream Pie Cheesecake
📋 Recipe Card
Taco Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Main Ingredient: Ground Beef
Ingredients: See ingredient section above.
Instructions: See instructions section above.
It’s a quick, budget-friendly, and super flavorful recipe that combines everything you love about tacos—spicy ground beef, cheese, and seasoning—with the slurp-worthy appeal of spaghetti.
Speaking of bold flavors, don’t miss these delicious bites: Crispy Spicy Salmon Bites and Burger in a Bowl, both high-impact and low-effort!
💬 Let’s Chat!
Did you try this Taco Spaghetti recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below, snap a photo and tag me on Instagram @sarahs_kitchen_notes, or let me know your favorite topping twist!