Bold Taco Spaghetti Dish

This hearty Taco Spaghetti combines two family favorites into one delicious meal that's perfect for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying but don't have hours to spend in the kitchen. The bold Mexican flavors blend beautifully with classic pasta comfort in this fusion dish that's quickly become a staple in my rotation.

I created this recipe when my kids were going through a phase of wanting tacos and pasta for every meal. Rather than choosing between them, I combined their favorites, and now this dish appears on our table at least twice a month by popular demand.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti: great with regular or gluten-free varieties depending on dietary needs
• 1 pound ground beef: provides richness and protein but can swap for turkey for a lighter option
• 1 cup diced onion: builds the flavor foundation and adds subtle sweetness
• 3 cloves garlic: adds aromatic depth that complements the taco seasoning
• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning: the secret flavor booster; look for varieties without additives
• 1 cup beef broth: creates a silky sauce that coats the pasta
• 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes: adds texture and acidity; choose fire-roasted for extra flavor
• 4 ounce can diced green chilies: provides mild heat without overwhelming the dish
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce (optional): enhances umami notes and deepens flavor
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce (optional): adds complexity and brings out the meatiness
• 1 cup shredded cheese: creates the creamy texture; use a Mexican blend for authentic flavor
• Salt and pepper: allows you to adjust seasoning to your preference
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (optional): brightens the finished dish with fresh herbaceous notes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pasta:

Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. This usually takes 8 to 10 minutes in salted boiling water. Be sure not to overcook as the pasta will continue to absorb sauce later. Reserve about ¼ cup pasta water before draining in case you need to loosen the sauce.

Brown the Meat and Aromatics:

Heat a large, deep skillet over medium high heat. Add the ground beef and onion together, breaking the meat into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 7 to 8 minutes until the beef is no longer pink and the onions have softened and become translucent. If there's excessive fat, tilt the pan and spoon it out or drain using a colander.

Add Seasonings:

Return pan to heat and add the minced garlic and taco seasoning directly to the meat mixture. Stir continuously for about 60 seconds until extremely fragrant. This step blooms the spices and releases their essential oils for maximum flavor development.

Create the Sauce:

Pour in the beef broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom; these contain concentrated flavor. Add diced tomatoes with their juice, green chilies, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium low and simmer uncovered for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken.

Incorporate Cheese:

Remove the pan from heat and immediately add the shredded cheese. Stir continuously until completely melted and incorporated into a smooth, creamy sauce. The residual heat will melt the cheese perfectly without risk of separation that can happen at high temperatures.

Combine and Finish:

Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste, remembering that the taco seasoning and cheese already contribute saltiness. Add the drained pasta and chopped cilantro to the sauce, using tongs to thoroughly coat every strand with the rich sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Pin it

The taco seasoning is truly the heart of this recipe. I keep a homemade batch in my pantry at all times after discovering how much better it tastes without the fillers found in store-bought varieties. My grandmother taught me to toast the spices briefly before mixing them, and that small step makes all the difference in developing deep, complex flavors.

Storing Leftovers

This Taco Spaghetti keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. The flavors actually continue to develop overnight, making it one of those rare pasta dishes that often tastes even better the next day. When reheating, add a small splash of water or broth to revitalize the sauce as the pasta will have absorbed some of the liquid.

Make Ahead Options

This dish works wonderfully for meal prep. You can prepare the meat sauce up to 2 days ahead and store it separately from the pasta. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, cook fresh pasta, and combine. For busy weeks, I often double the recipe and freeze half in family-sized portions that can be thawed and reheated for an almost instant homemade dinner.

Customization Ideas

The beauty of this Taco Spaghetti lies in its adaptability. Consider adding black beans or corn for additional texture and nutrition. Vegetarians can substitute the beef with lentils or a meat alternative. For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Create a taco spaghetti bar with toppings like diced avocado, sliced olives, sour cream, and extra cheese so everyone can customize their own bowl.

Pin it

Serving Suggestions

While delicious on its own, Taco Spaghetti pairs wonderfully with simple sides. Serve with a crisp green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette for freshness that balances the rich pasta. Warm tortillas or garlic bread make excellent accompaniments for soaking up extra sauce. For a complete fiesta, include a side of street corn salad or simple black beans to round out the meal with authentic Mexican flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What toppings pair well with Taco Spaghetti?

Popular toppings include sour cream, avocado, green onions, salsa, or extra shredded cheese. Customize to your preference!

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free spaghetti and substitute tamari for soy sauce to ensure the dish is gluten-free.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

→ Can I use other proteins besides ground beef?

Absolutely, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well as substitutions.

→ What’s a good way to make it spicier?

Add a diced jalapeño or extra chili powder with the onions, or top the finished dish with hot sauce.