Taco Spaghetti
An Exciting Twist on a Classic: Taco Spaghetti
This easy dinner recipe is one you’ll want to add to your menu plan soon! Introducing my new favorite way to make spaghetti: Taco Spaghetti!
Spaghetti was a staple in my house growing up. Every Wednesday was spaghetti night, and we always tried to think of new and exciting ways to enjoy it! My older sister came up with the idea of adding ranch and melted cheese, but the taco spaghetti was always my favorite. This easy Taco Spaghetti has only a few simple ingredients, yet it packs a big flavor punch that you’re going to love. If you’re a fan of taco recipes, be sure to check out more of my taco recipes too!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This easy, family-friendly casserole, dotted with melty pockets of cheese, proves that tacos and spaghetti are a match made in heaven. It’s the perfect blend of two beloved dishes, offering a comforting, cheesy delight for any night of the week.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot for boiling spaghetti
- Large skillet
- 9×9-inch baking dish
- Cooking spray
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 1-1/4 pounds lean ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 (1-oz) package taco seasoning
- 2/3 cup water
- 1 can (10.75-oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10-oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 1 (8-oz) package Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1-1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Lightly spray a 9×9-inch pan with cooking spray and set aside.
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it’s no longer pink. Drain the fat and return the meat to the skillet.
- Add the taco seasoning and water to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the cream of chicken soup, Velveeta cheese, and Rotel tomatoes. Reduce the heat to low and cook until the cheese melts, stirring constantly.
- Mix in the cooked spaghetti, then pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until heated through.
Tips for Success
Make sure to preheat your oven and cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Stir the cheese mixture constantly to prevent it from burning.
Additional Tips and Variations
Feel free to add a can of black beans or corn for extra texture. You can also use pepper jack cheese for a spicier kick!
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This dish is rich in protein thanks to the ground beef or turkey and cheese. It’s a hearty meal that provides a good source of calcium and vitamins from the tomatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with any pasta you like.
Is there a vegetarian option? You can replace the meat with a meat substitute or additional beans for a vegetarian version.
Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare the dish the night before and bake it the next day.
Conclusion
Give this Taco Spaghetti a try and experience the delightful fusion of two classic favorites. We’d love to hear about your experience and any personal touches you added to the recipe. Enjoy your meal!
