Taco Spaghetti Recipe (Bold, Cheesy Tex-Mex Pasta Dinner)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Taco spaghetti is the ultimate fusion comfort food, combining the bold, seasoned flavors of tacos with the familiar, satisfying texture of spaghetti. This dish is perfect for nights when you want something hearty, flavorful, and family-friendly without spending hours in the kitchen. The savory ground beef, warm spices, and rich tomato-based sauce coat the pasta beautifully, while melted cheese brings everything together into a creamy, indulgent finish. What I love most about taco spaghetti is how adaptable it is. You can adjust the spice level, add vegetables, or swap proteins easily. I tested this recipe with both mild and spicy taco seasoning, and it worked equally well depending on preference. It is a one-pan-style meal that feels comforting, filling, and fun, making it a great alternative to traditional pasta dishes.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Spaghetti
Spaghetti forms the base of the dish and holds the sauce well. Cooking it just until al dente prevents it from becoming too soft once mixed with the sauce.

Ground Beef
Ground beef adds richness and hearty flavor. An 80/20 blend offers the best balance of taste and texture.

Onion
Onion adds mild sweetness and depth, enhancing the savory taco flavors.

Garlic
Garlic provides aromatic warmth and complements the spices in the dish.

Taco Seasoning
Taco seasoning delivers the signature Tex-Mex flavor with a blend of spices such as cumin and chili powder.

Tomato Sauce
Tomato sauce creates the base of the pasta sauce, adding moisture and tang.

Diced Tomatoes
Diced tomatoes add texture and extra tomato flavor to the sauce.

Beef Broth
Beef broth deepens the savory profile and helps loosen the sauce.

Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar cheese melts smoothly and adds sharp, comforting flavor.

Monterey Jack Cheese
Monterey Jack adds creaminess and balances the sharper cheddar.

Salt and Black Pepper
These seasonings enhance all the flavors and bring balance to the dish.

Fresh Cilantro
Cilantro adds a fresh finish and a hint of brightness.

Directions

Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. In a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add chopped onion to the beef and cook until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and mix well to coat the beef evenly.

Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir and allow the mixture to simmer for several minutes until slightly thickened. Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan and toss until fully coated in the sauce.

Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe serves six people. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 25 minutes, making it a convenient 35-minute meal.

Storage/reheating

Store leftover taco spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Variations and Customizations

Taco spaghetti is highly customizable and easy to adapt. For a lighter version, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. I have also tested this recipe with black beans added for extra fiber and texture, which worked very well.

If you enjoy spice, add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes. Corn or bell peppers can be stirred into the sauce for added sweetness and color. For a creamier version, a small amount of cream cheese can be mixed in along with the shredded cheese.

You can also experiment with different pasta shapes such as rotini or penne if spaghetti is not available. These adjustments allow you to tailor the dish to your preferences while keeping its bold Tex-Mex character.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

This dish contains dairy, gluten, and meat. It is high in protein and carbohydrates, making it a filling meal. Gluten-free pasta can be used if required.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Do Not Overcook Pasta
Al dente pasta holds up better when mixed with sauce.

Cheese Melting
Lower the heat before adding cheese to prevent separation.

Season Gradually
Taste after adding seasoning to control salt and spice.

FAQs

Can I make taco spaghetti ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well and is suitable for meal prep.

Can I use store-bought taco seasoning?

Yes, store-bought seasoning works perfectly.

Is taco spaghetti spicy?

It is mild by default but easily adjustable.

Can I freeze taco spaghetti?

Freezing is possible, though texture may change slightly.

What cheese works best?

Cheddar and Monterey Jack melt best.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, corn, peppers, or beans work well.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, use plant-based meat or beans.

What pasta alternatives can I use?

Any sturdy pasta shape will work.

How do I make it creamier?

Add cream cheese or extra shredded cheese.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, it is very popular with children.

Conclusion

Taco spaghetti is a bold, comforting dish that blends Tex-Mex flavors with classic pasta in a fun and satisfying way. With simple ingredients, quick preparation, and endless customization options, it is a reliable recipe for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This fusion favorite is sure to become a regular addition to your dinner rotation.

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