Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 2/3 cup water
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel Tomatoes or diced tomatoes (if Rotel is unavailable)
- 8 oz Spaghetti
- 1 – 2 small cans of Tomato Paste (depending on desired sauciness)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Mexican blend, or your choice)
- Optional toppings: sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, sour cream, sliced olives
Instructions:
- Cook Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Taco Meat: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat. Add the taco seasoning and 2/3 cup of water to the meat. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until the seasoning is well incorporated and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, combine the cooked spaghetti and the taco-seasoned meat mixture. Add the can of Rotel Tomatoes (or diced tomatoes) along with the desired amount of tomato paste. Mix everything together well until the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Simmer: Let the combined mixture simmer on low heat for an additional 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Cheese: Just before serving, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of the taco spaghetti. Cover the pot for a couple of minutes to melt the cheese.
- Serve: Spoon the cheesy taco spaghetti onto plates. Top with optional toppings like sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, sour cream, or sliced olives.
- Enjoy: Dive into your delicious Friday tradition of Taco Spaghetti! The combination of savory taco seasoning, hearty ground beef, and the fusion of pasta and Tex-Mex flavors make this a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Note: Feel free to customize this recipe by adding black beans, corn kernels, or sliced jalapeños for added texture and flavor. Enjoy your Taco Spaghetti with your favorite Mexican-inspired sides and beverages!
1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
- Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef. Just ensure it’s fully cooked and seasoned well for a delicious taco spaghetti experience.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Absolutely! Taco spaghetti can be prepared ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little water or broth if it thickens too much.
3. How spicy is this dish?
- The spice level depends on the taco seasoning and Rotel Tomatoes used. If you prefer a milder version, choose a mild taco seasoning and use plain diced tomatoes instead of Rotel. You can always adjust the spice level by adding more or less seasoning according to your preference.
4. Can I make it vegetarian?
- Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground meat with plant-based alternatives like tofu crumbles or cooked lentils. Ensure the taco seasoning is vegetarian-friendly, and consider adding extra vegetables like bell peppers and onions for texture and flavor.
5. Can I freeze Taco Spaghetti?
- Yes, you can freeze taco spaghetti for up to 3 months. Store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bags. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Note that the texture of the pasta may slightly change after freezing and thawing.
6. What sides go well with Taco Spaghetti?
- Taco spaghetti pairs well with a variety of sides such as a simple green salad, garlic bread, or tortilla chips with guacamole and salsa. You can also serve it with Mexican-inspired sides like refried beans, Spanish rice, or a corn and black bean salad.
7. Can I use different types of cheese?
- Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend. Different cheeses will add unique flavors to the dish, so feel free to customize it according to your taste preference. Grated cheese works best for even melting.
8. How can I make it healthier?
- To make taco spaghetti healthier, consider using whole wheat or whole grain spaghetti for added fiber. Increase the proportion of vegetables in the dish by adding bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Opt for reduced-sodium taco seasoning and use lean ground meat or plant-based alternatives to reduce saturated fat content.
