When taco night and pasta night collide, the result is pure magic. Taco Spaghetti is a bold, flavorful, cheesy mashup that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Even better? It all comes together in just one pot—minimal dishes, maximum flavor, and guaranteed smiles all around.
Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or just looking for something fun and fast, Easy One-Pot Taco Spaghetti is a recipe that earns its place in your regular rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One pot = less cleanup
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Classic taco flavors in a pasta twist
- Cheesy, saucy, and seriously satisfying
This dish is a lifesaver for hectic nights when you need something hearty, delicious, and kid-approved.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 ½ cups water or beef broth
- 8 oz uncooked spaghetti, broken in half
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Brown the Meat
In a large pot or deep skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until the meat is browned and the onion is soft. Drain excess grease if needed. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add Seasonings and Liquids
Stir in taco seasoning, Rotel, tomato sauce, and water or broth. Mix well.
3. Add the Spaghetti
Add the broken spaghetti directly into the pot. Gently press it down into the liquid. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed.
4. Stir in the Cheese
Once the pasta is tender, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Serve and Garnish
Serve hot, topped with chopped cilantro, green onions, or even a dollop of sour cream for a little extra flair.
Tips & Variations
- Make it spicy: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or use spicy Rotel for an extra kick.
- Add beans or corn: For more texture and fiber, toss in a drained can of black beans or corn.
- Use different pasta: Shells, rotini, or even penne can work—just adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Cheese swap: Try pepper jack or a Mexican blend for more flavor variety.
Why This Dish Works
It’s all about smart shortcuts and layered flavors. Taco seasoning delivers instant depth, Rotel adds zest, and cheese ties it all together. Plus, since the pasta cooks right in the sauce, it soaks up every drop of that Tex-Mex goodness.
Final Thoughts
Easy One-Pot Taco Spaghetti is everything a weeknight dinner should be—quick, flavorful, family-friendly, and comforting. It’s the kind of recipe that disappears fast and earns requests for seconds (or thirds). Serve it with a simple side salad or tortilla chips for a complete, crave-worthy meal.
Ready in a flash, easy on the dishes, and bursting with bold taco flavor—this cheesy taco spaghetti is sure to be a new favorite at your dinner table.
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