Taco Spaghetti To Die For

 

Taco Spaghetti To Die For is a delightful fusion of Mexican and Italian cuisines that creates a dish bursting with flavor. This recipe combines the zesty, savory goodness of tacos with the comforting familiarity of spaghetti to create a meal that’s a hit with both kids and adults. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Ingredients

For the Taco Spaghetti:

  • 8 ounces spaghetti
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 packet taco seasoning mix
  • 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
  • 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Chopped fresh cilantro and sliced green onions for garnish (optional)

For the Toppings (Optional):

  • Sour cream
  • Sliced black olives
  • Sliced jalapeños
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Sliced green onions
  • Salsa

Instructions

Cooking the Spaghetti:

  1. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Making the Taco Spaghetti:

  1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it’s browned and no longer pink. Use a spoon to break it apart into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked beef. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
  3. Stir in the taco seasoning mix, diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, and water. Mix well to combine.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss it with the taco meat sauce until it’s well coated.
  6. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top of the spaghetti. Cover the skillet and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving the Taco Spaghetti:

  1. Serve your Taco Spaghetti To Die For hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro and sliced green onions if desired.

Toppings (Optional):

  1. Set out a variety of toppings like sour cream, sliced black olives, sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, and salsa for everyone to customize their taco spaghetti.

Variations and Tips

  • Protein Swap: Instead of ground beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or a meat substitute for a lighter option.
  • Spaghetti Alternatives: Feel free to use any pasta shape you like, from penne to fusilli, to make this dish your own.
  • Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheese blends like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for a unique flavor twist.
  • Veggie Delight: Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or black beans for added color and nutrition.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the level of spiciness by choosing mild or hot taco seasoning and adjusting the amount of jalapeños or hot sauce to your taste.
  • Make It Ahead: This dish reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep. Simply store leftovers in the fridge and reheat portions in the microwave or on the stovetop.

 

Taco Spaghetti To Die For is a flavorful fusion that brings the best of Mexican and Italian cuisines to your table. With its savory taco meat sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a dish that’s sure to please the whole family. Customize it with your favorite toppings and enjoy a meal that’s both comforting and exciting. So, get ready to savor the fusion fiesta in every forkful of this delightful Taco Spaghetti To Die For!