TACO SPAGHETTI – The Ultimate Tex-Mex Pasta Mash-Up
A fun, family-friendly twist on Taco Tuesday and pasta night, Taco Spaghetti combines the bold, zesty flavors of tacos with comforting spaghetti—all in a cheesy, saucy one-pan dinner everyone will love.
🍽️ Ingredients for TACO SPAGHETTI – The Ultimate Tex-Mex Pasta Mash-Up
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8 oz (225 g) spaghetti
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1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or turkey)
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade)
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1 cup (240 ml) tomato sauce
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1 cup (240 ml) beef broth (or water)
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1 cup corn kernels (optional)
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1 can (10 oz / 284 g) Rotel diced tomatoes & green chilies
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2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Mexican blend, or Colby Jack)
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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Toppings (optional): sliced black olives, chopped cilantro, jalapeños, sour cream, sliced green onions
🔪 Instructions
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Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water 1–2 minutes less than package directions (it will finish in sauce). Drain.
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Brown beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
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Add onion and garlic; cook 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
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Stir in taco seasoning, tomato sauce, Rotel, corn, and broth. Simmer 3–4 minutes.
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Add cooked spaghetti, tossing to coat well in taco sauce.
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Sprinkle with shredded cheese, cover with lid, and let melt (about 2 minutes).
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Top with your favorite taco fixings. Serve hot!
📝 Notes
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Rotel adds a spicy kick—swap for regular diced tomatoes for a milder version.
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For more sauciness, increase broth to 1½ cups.
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Want it creamy? Stir in ¼ cup sour cream before adding cheese.
💡 Tips
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Add black beans, bell peppers, or zucchini to boost nutrition.
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Use whole-wheat or gluten-free spaghetti if desired.
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Makes fantastic leftovers—reheat with a splash of broth or water.
👨👩👧 Servings
Serves 4 hungry adults or 5–6 kids.
⚖️ Approximate Nutrition (per serving)
| Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 520 | 30 g | 45 g | 24 g | 4 g |
🌟 Benefits
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One-pan, minimal cleanup!
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Kid-approved flavor combo.
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Customizable heat levels + toppings.
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High in protein and satisfying comfort food.
❓ Q & A
Q: Can I make it ahead?
A: Yes! Cook everything except the cheese topping. Reheat when ready to eat, then add cheese.
Q: Can I make it without meat?
A: Absolutely—use crumbled tofu, lentils, or meatless crumbles instead.
Q: How spicy is it?
A: Mild-medium. Control heat by choosing mild or hot taco seasoning & Rotel.
Q: What cheese works best?
A: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or any melty Mexican blend.
