Easy Taco Spaghetti Recipe
If you’ve ever been torn between taco night and pasta night, this Easy Taco Spaghetti Recipe is here to save the day. It’s a fun, flavorful fusion dish that combines all the bold Tex-Mex flavors you love spiced ground meat, black beans, corn, zesty tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese with the cozy comfort of a spaghetti dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights, family meals, or casual gatherings, this recipe is quick, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To whip up this easy taco spaghetti, you’ll need simple pantry staples:
- 400 g spaghetti
- 500 g ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (28 g) taco seasoning
- 400 g canned diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 240 ml tomato sauce
- 120 ml beef broth (or water)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup black beans, drained & rinsed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the pasta – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente (8–10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics – In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent (3–4 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
- Brown the meat – Add ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink (5–6 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add seasoning and sauce – Sprinkle taco seasoning over the meat, then stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in veggies – Add corn and black beans. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes so the flavors meld. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Combine pasta and sauce – Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss until the pasta is fully coated in the taco sauce.
- Top and serve – Remove from heat, sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese, and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Why This Easy Taco Spaghetti Recipe Works
- One-pot wonder – fewer dishes, more flavor.
- Budget-friendly – made with affordable, everyday ingredients.
- Family-approved – kids love the cheesy pasta, adults love the taco vibes.
- Quick & easy – ready in just 30 minutes.
- Customizable – swap proteins, adjust spice, or add veggies.
Variations & Tips
- Make it creamy – Stir in cream cheese, sour cream, or Greek yogurt before serving.
- Add heat – Toss in jalapeños, chili flakes, or a splash of hot sauce.
- Vegetarian version – Skip the meat and double the beans, or use plant-based crumbles.
- Change up the pasta – Try penne, rotini, or shells instead of spaghetti.
- Topping bar idea – Serve with diced tomatoes, avocado, crushed tortilla chips, or green onions for a fun DIY dinner.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- A fresh green salad with lime vinaigrette
- Warm garlic bread or cheesy quesadillas
- A side of guacamole or salsa for dipping
Storage & Meal Prep
- Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze – Portion into freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick meal.
Nutrition (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Protein: 28 g
- Carbs: 56 g
- Fat: 22 g
Conclusion
This Easy Taco Spaghetti Recipe is the ultimate comfort food mash-up. It’s bold, cheesy, satisfying, and versatile enough to fit into any weeknight dinner rotation. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping, or hosting friends, this fusion recipe delivers on both taste and convenience. Next time you can’t decide between tacos and spaghetti make both in one dish!
