Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food mashup that combines two family favorites – tacos and spaghetti! This crowd-pleasing Tex-Mex pasta dish brings together seasoned ground beef, melty cheddar cheese, and classic taco flavors with tender spaghetti noodles.
Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pot wonder delivers all the satisfying flavors of taco night with the hearty comfort of a pasta dinner. It’s a guaranteed hit that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This
- Ready in just 45 minutes from start to finish
- Uses simple pantry ingredients you likely already have
- Kid-friendly and perfect for picky eaters
- Makes excellent leftovers that reheat beautifully
- Customizable with your favorite taco toppings
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 package (16 oz) spaghetti
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent.
- Add ground beef and garlic, cooking until beef is browned and crumbled.
- Stir in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, and green chiles.
- Add beef broth and bring to a boil. Add spaghetti.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese until melted.
- Top with remaining cheese and cover until melted.
Tips & Variations
- Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option
- Use Mexican cheese blend instead of cheddar
- Break spaghetti in half for easier serving
- Add black beans for extra protein
- Spice it up with diced jalapeños or hot sauce
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with your favorite taco toppings like sour cream, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and sliced black olives. A side of Mexican street corn or a simple green salad makes the perfect accompaniment.
Notes
- Stores well in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Pasta should be al dente when done cooking
- Add more broth if needed during cooking
FAQs
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, prepare up to 2 days ahead and reheat gently with a splash of broth.
- Can I freeze this dish? Yes, freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container.
- What if I don’t have taco seasoning? Make your own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and oregano.
- Can I use different pasta shapes? Absolutely! Any medium-length pasta works well.
Servings4
Prep15 min
Cook45 min
Calories—
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 package (16 oz) spaghetti
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Steps
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent.
- Add ground beef and garlic, cooking until beef is browned and crumbled.
- Stir in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, and green chiles.
- Add beef broth and bring to a boil. Add spaghetti.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese until melted.
- Top with remaining cheese and cover until melted.
Notes
- Stores well in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Pasta should be al dente when done cooking
- Add more broth if needed during cooking
