Introducing an exciting fusion dish that combines the flavorful, zesty elements of Mexican cuisine with the familiar comfort of Italian spaghetti. The 'Taco Spaghetti Delight' is a delightful amalgamation of textures and flavors guaranteed to surprise your palate.
Most of the ingredients required for this recipe should be readily available in your kitchen pantry. However, keep an eye out for a packet of taco seasoning, which will give the dish its unique Mexican twist. If you don't normally stock fresh cilantro or roma tomatoes, you might want to add them to your grocery list as they add a burst of freshness to the dish.
Ingredients for Taco Spaghetti Delight
Ground beef: The main protein source in this dish. It is browned and crumbled, forming the base of our 'taco' sauce.
Onion: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the sauce.
Garlic: A staple for flavor in almost any savory dish.
Mushroom: Gives an earthy flavor and meaty texture.
Taco seasoning: Infuses the dish with typical Mexican flavors like chili, garlic, and onion.
Tomato sauce and canned tomatoes: Provide a tangy base for our spaghetti sauce.
Sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
Roma tomato: A less juicy type of tomato that maintains its shape after chopping.
Cilantro: Gives a fresh and slight citrus flavor to the dish.
Mozzarella cheese: Melts well, adding a creamy texture and mild flavor.
Cheddar cheese: Adds a tangy depth of flavor.
Spaghetti: A long, thin pasta that serves as the base of our dish.
One reader, Cinnamon Grossman says:
This taco spaghetti delight is a game-changer! The fusion of taco flavors with spaghetti is genius. The blend of spices and the cheesy goodness make it a delightful treat. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a unique twist on classic dishes. Highly recommend!
Key Techniques for Taco Spaghetti Delight
How to brown ground beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until it is no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
How to simmer sauce: Once all the ingredients are combined, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
How to cook spaghetti noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the spaghetti and return it to the pot.
Enjoy the taste of both Mexican and Italian dishes with this deliciously unique taco spaghetti recipe! Who knew the savory taste of Mexican tacos blends well with spaghetti pasta? This taco spaghetti dish is so appetizing that I made another batch for my family the next day. That’s why I’m sharing this easy lunch or dinner recipe with you so that you won’t miss out on a great tasting meal.
This taco spaghetti recipe is filled with tender ground beef and spaghetti pasta drenched in taco seasoning mix, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, fresh cilantro, mozzarella and cheddar cheese. The pasta was cooked al dente so that it was neither firm nor soft when combined with the beef and taco mixture. Combine all of these tasty ingredients, and you’ll get a Tex-Mex inspired pasta dish that’s bursting with rich and savory goodness. It’s definitely not like any typical pasta recipes. I can’t get enough of this taco spaghetti or taco pasta as my children like to call it.
I had an easy time making this dish since I love both Mexican and Italian style dishes. This recipe brings together two of my favorites: tacos and spaghetti that’s covered and seasoned with a delicious taco-flavored meat sauce. Aside from these, the mozzarella and cheddar cheese completed the dish.
I’m always a fan of anything cheesy and meaty, so I even added a bit more cheese to my serving. Another cheese topping I tried was cotija cheese which is a type of Mexican cheese that’s well-known for its salty and crumbly texture. I also tried adding in black beans for added flavor. It’s perfect for adding that authentic taste and feel to the pasta.
It’s a delicious Mexican spaghetti style recipe variation that you can easily try at home. I made a big batch for my family that I ended up having leftovers. My taco spaghetti dish lasted for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Even after it was reheated, the taco spaghetti remained fresh and delicious. Serve this alongside some tasty green beans or salads.
How To Make Taco Spaghetti
Enjoy your favorite Mexican food in spaghetti form. This taco spaghetti recipe is packed with taco seasonings, beef, cheese, and tomato sauce.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lblean ground beef
- 2tbspolive oil
- 1cantomato sauce
- 1canRotel tomatoes,diced
- 1pkgtaco seasoning
- 1onion,diced
- 1tbspgarlic,minced
- ½pkgfresh mushroom
- 1tspsugar
- 1Roma tomato,diced
- fresh cilantro,diced
- mozzarella cheese,shredded, (or Velveeta cheese)
- cheddar cheese,shredded
- 1pkgspaghetti
Instructions
-
Heat olive oil over medium heat, then brown ground beef.
-
Add onions and garlic and cook for a few minutes. Once golden-brown, add mushrooms and cook for a couple of minutes.
-
Add taco seasoning, tomato sauce, canned Rotel tomatoes, and sugar. To this, add a cup of water and simmer for 30 minutes.
-
Cook spaghetti noodles according to package directions while the sauce is simmering. Once cooked, add sauce to spaghetti.
-
Top with fresh diced Roma tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, and fresh cilantro.
-
Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 834.61kcal
- Fat: 31.85g
- Saturated Fat: 9.97g
- Trans Fat: 1.34g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 15.26g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.21g
- Carbohydrates: 99.16g
- Fiber: 7.48g
- Sugar: 11.60g
- Protein: 37.46g
- Cholesterol: 80.51mg
- Sodium: 686.65mg
- Calcium: 103.33mg
- Potassium: 1180.18mg
- Iron: 5.80mg
- Vitamin A: 63.03µg
- Vitamin C: 20.96mg
Pro Tip for Perfecting Taco Spaghetti Delight
When browning the ground beef, make sure to break it up into small, even pieces. This will ensure that it cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors of the onions, garlic, and taco seasoning better. Additionally, when adding the spaghetti to the sauce, consider saving a cup of the pasta water. The starchy water can help to thicken the sauce and make it stick to the pasta better, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
Time-Saving Tips for Taco Spaghetti Delight
Prep ahead: Chop and prepare all your ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process and save time.
One-pot wonders: Opt for one-pot recipes to minimize cleanup and simplify the cooking process.
Batch cooking: Make larger quantities of the recipe and store leftovers for quick and convenient meals throughout the week.
Time-saving tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors and slow cookers to expedite meal preparation.
Organized workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you cook to avoid wasting time searching for utensils and ingredients.
Substitute Ingredients For Taco Spaghetti Recipe
lean ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a lean and healthy alternative to ground beef, and it provides a similar texture and flavor to the dish.
tomato sauce - Substitute with salsa: Salsa can add a flavorful and slightly spicy kick to the dish, replacing the tomato sauce with a more vibrant taste.
taco seasoning - Substitute with chili powder, cumin, and paprika: A combination of these spices can mimic the flavors of taco seasoning, providing a homemade alternative.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor compared to onions, adding a subtle depth to the dish.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a similar flavor without the need for chopping or mincing.
mushroom - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini can add a similar texture and absorb flavors well, providing a vegetable alternative to mushrooms.
mozzarella cheese - Substitute with monterey jack cheese: Monterey jack cheese has a mild flavor and melts well, making it a suitable substitute for mozzarella in this dish.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with pepper jack cheese: Pepper jack cheese adds a spicy kick and melts beautifully, providing a flavorful alternative to cheddar cheese.
Presenting Taco Spaghetti Delight in Style
Elevate the plating: When presenting the taco spaghetti delight, ensure that the spaghetti is neatly twirled and placed at the center of the plate. The sauce should be generously spooned over the spaghetti, creating a visually appealing presentation.
Incorporate color contrast: Introduce vibrant colors to the dish by garnishing with fresh diced roma tomatoes and cilantro. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a refreshing touch to the overall presentation.
Balance the cheese: Sprinkle a combination of mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the top of the dish, ensuring an even distribution. This will create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, adding depth to the presentation.
Emphasize freshness: Prioritize the use of fresh ingredients, such as ripe tomatoes and fragrant cilantro, to showcase the quality and authenticity of the dish.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each element on the plate, ensuring that the presentation exudes attention to detail and culinary finesse.
Highlight the aroma: As the dish is presented, allow the aromatic essence of the taco spaghetti delight to captivate the senses, creating an immersive culinary experience for the diners.
Essential Tools for Making Taco Spaghetti Delight
- Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for making sauces, salsas, and grinding meat.
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is an essential kitchen tool for combining ingredients, whisking, and stirring. It comes in various sizes and materials, such as stainless steel, glass, or ceramic.
- Skillet: A skillet, also known as a frying pan, is used for cooking a wide range of dishes, from sautéing vegetables to searing meats. It's an indispensable tool for stovetop cooking.
- Colander: A colander is a perforated bowl-shaped kitchen tool used for draining liquids from foods, such as pasta or vegetables. It's essential for straining and rinsing ingredients.
- Grater: A grater is a kitchen tool with sharp-edged holes used to shred or grate ingredients like cheese, vegetables, or citrus zest. It's handy for adding texture and flavor to dishes.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are used to accurately measure ingredients for recipes. They come in various sizes and are essential for precise cooking and baking.
- Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for chopping, slicing, and preparing ingredients. It helps protect countertops and keeps knives sharp.
- Chef's knife: A chef's knife is a versatile, all-purpose kitchen knife used for chopping, slicing, and mincing. It's an essential tool for food preparation.
- Saucepan: A saucepan is a deep cooking vessel with a handle and often a lid, used for boiling, simmering, and making sauces or soups. It's a staple in stovetop cooking.
- Tongs: Tongs are kitchen utensils with two arms and a pivot, used for gripping and lifting hot or delicate foods. They are essential for grilling, sautéing, and serving.
Storing and Freezing Taco Spaghetti Delight
Allow the taco spaghetti delight to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the spaghetti noodles from becoming soggy and the sauce from separating.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled taco spaghetti delight to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the taco spaghetti delight:
- Divide the cooled dish into individual serving portions and place them in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
- Squeeze out any excess air from the bags to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Frozen taco spaghetti delight can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat the refrigerated or frozen taco spaghetti delight:
- If frozen, thaw the desired portion in the refrigerator overnight.
- Place the refrigerated or thawed portion in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely with a lid or plastic wrap.
- Microwave on high power for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the dish in a covered skillet or saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.
When reheating, you may need to add a splash of water or tomato sauce to restore moisture and prevent the spaghetti from drying out.
Garnish the reheated taco spaghetti delight with fresh toppings like diced roma tomatoes, shredded mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, and chopped fresh cilantro for a fresh and flavorful experience.
Reheating Taco Spaghetti Delight Leftovers
Reheat the leftover taco spaghetti delight in a microwave-safe dish, covered with a damp paper towel to prevent the spaghetti from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
For a crispy texture, reheat the taco spaghetti delight in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Cover the dish with foil to prevent the top from burning, and remove the foil for the last 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and slightly brown.
Reheat the leftover taco spaghetti delight in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pan to prevent the spaghetti from sticking and to help reconstitute the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
If you have an air fryer, you can reheat the taco spaghetti delight in it for a quick and crispy result. Place the leftovers in the air fryer basket and cook at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
For a quick and easy reheat, place the leftover taco spaghetti delight in a microwave-safe dish and add a splash of water or chicken broth. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
Interesting Trivia About Taco Spaghetti Delight
Taco spaghetti delight is a fusion dish that combines the flavors of traditional tacos with the comforting appeal of spaghetti. This unique combination offers a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for those who love both Mexican and Italian cuisine.
Taco Spaghetti Delight: Budget-Friendly Home Cooking
This taco spaghetti delight recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The use of affordable ingredients like ground beef, canned tomatoes, and spaghetti makes it budget-friendly. The addition of fresh vegetables and herbs can be adjusted based on availability and preference, further enhancing its cost-effectiveness. The overall verdict for this recipe is 8/10, considering its taste, simplicity, and affordability. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it an economical yet satisfying meal option.
Is Taco Spaghetti Delight a Healthy Choice?
The taco spaghetti delight recipe, while tasty, may not be the healthiest option due to several factors:
- The use of ground beef, which is high in saturated fat and calories
- The inclusion of taco seasoning, which often contains high levels of sodium
- The addition of sugar to the sauce
- The generous use of cheese, which can be high in saturated fat and calories
However, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients, such as:
- Fresh vegetables like onions, garlic, mushrooms, and tomatoes
- The use of lean ground beef, which reduces the overall fat content
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Opt for extra-lean ground beef or replace it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein source
- Reduce the amount of cheese used or choose low-fat varieties
- Make your own taco seasoning to control the sodium content
- Increase the number of vegetables in the dish, such as adding bell peppers or zucchini
- Use whole wheat spaghetti for added fiber and nutrients
- Replace the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or omit it altogether
- Use low-sodium tomato sauce and canned tomatoes to reduce the overall sodium content
By incorporating more vegetables, using leaner proteins, and reducing the amount of high-fat and high-sodium ingredients, you can transform this taco spaghetti delight into a more balanced and nutritious meal that still satisfies your taste buds.
The Editor's Take on Taco Spaghetti Delight
This taco spaghetti delight recipe is a fusion of Mexican and Italian flavors, creating a unique and delicious dish. The combination of taco seasoning, ground beef, and tomato sauce with spaghetti noodles offers a delightful twist on traditional spaghetti. The addition of fresh ingredients like mushrooms, onions, and cilantro adds depth and freshness to the dish. The blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese provides a creamy and indulgent finish. Overall, this recipe is a flavorful and satisfying meal that is sure to impress your taste buds.
Enhance Your Taco Spaghetti Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Taco Spaghetti Delight
Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Taco Spaghetti Delight
Why trust this Taco Spaghetti Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the savory goodness of taco seasoning with the comforting appeal of spaghetti. The use of fresh ingredients such as mushrooms, roma tomatoes, and cilantro ensures a vibrant and authentic taste. The addition of mozzarella cheese and cheddar cheese brings a rich and indulgent element to the dish. With a carefully balanced blend of ingredients and a straightforward cooking method, this recipe promises a satisfying and enjoyable dining experience.
Was this page helpful?
Have your own special recipe to share? Submit Your Recipe Today!
Related Recipes
Spaghetti Tacos Recipe
Cheesy Breadsticks Recipe (Toppers Pizza Copycat)
Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Turkey Taco Spaghetti Squash Boats Recipe
Barbacoa Beef Tacos with Pickled Watermelon & Avocado Sauce Recipe
Keto Cheese Taco Shells Recipe
Ground Turkey Taco Meat Recipe
Del Taco Copycat Beef Tacos Recipe
Vegetarian Spaghetti with Mushrooms and Slow Roasted Tomatoes Recipe
Beef Taco Dip with Meat Recipe
Hole Mole’s Fish Tacos Recipe
