About This Recipe
Taco spaghetti is a fusion dish that combines the core ingredients and flavors of traditional tacos with the format of a spaghetti pasta dish. It typically involves ground beef seasoned with a taco spice blend, mixed with spaghetti and a tomato-based sauce, often incorporating cheese and other typical taco toppings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe provides a convenient way to enjoy taco flavors in a new form. It is a single-dish meal that simplifies serving. The combination of familiar ingredients makes it an accessible recipe for various cooking skill levels.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel), undrained
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional toppings: sour cream, sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, diced onion
Step by Step Instructions
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it is browned and crumbled. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the taco seasoning, undrained diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, and water to the skillet with the beef. Stir until well combined.
- Break the spaghetti in half and add it to the skillet, submerging it in the liquid as much as possible.
- Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. Cook until the spaghetti is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
- Serve immediately, adding optional toppings as desired.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes. While spaghetti is traditional for this recipe, other long pasta shapes like linguine or fettuccine can be used. The cooking time may need adjustment based on the pasta shape.
Can I make this recipe with ground turkey or chicken?
Yes. Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the ground beef using the same cooking method.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes. The completed dish can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated. Note that the pasta may absorb more liquid upon standing.
You Must Know
It is important to break the spaghetti in half to ensure it fits in a standard skillet and cooks evenly. Consistent stirring during the simmering process is necessary to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan and to ensure uniform cooking.
Storage Tips
Store leftover taco spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet on the stovetop, adding a small amount of water or broth if the pasta appears dry. This dish is not ideal for freezing due to the texture change of the pasta upon thawing.