Description
Spicy Mexican-inspired Taco Spaghetti brings zesty flavors dancing across your plate with cheesy, meaty goodness. Comfort meets excitement in this quick weeknight dinner that promises to satisfy hungry families and spice enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat:
- 1 pound ground beef
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1/4 cup taco seasoning (or 1 packet)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup yellow onions, chopped
Pasta and Additional Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (226 grams) spaghetti noodles (uncooked)
- 1 (10 ounces / 283 grams) can Rotel tomatoes (do not drain)
- 3 cups water
- 4 ounces (113 grams) cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Sauté ground beef and onions in olive oil over medium heat until meat browns and onions become translucent, approximately 6-8 minutes.
- Incorporate taco seasoning and Rotel tomatoes, stirring thoroughly to distribute flavors evenly.
- Add uncooked spaghetti noodles directly into the skillet, then pour water to cover ingredients.
- Increase heat to high and bring liquid to a rolling boil, then immediately reduce temperature to low.
- Cover skillet and allow mixture to simmer for 12-15 minutes, occasionally stirring to prevent noodles from sticking.
- Check pasta for doneness, ensuring most liquid is absorbed and noodles are tender.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, gently folding until cheese melts completely and creates a creamy consistency.
- Turn off heat and let dish rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a bright, herbaceous finish.
- Serve immediately while hot, directly from the skillet for maximum flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a leaner or vegetarian version that still packs incredible flavor.
- Use gluten-free spaghetti noodles to make this dish completely gluten-free without compromising taste or texture.
- Enhance spice levels by adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy extra heat in their meal.
- Prepare extra portions and store in an airtight container for quick meal prep – this dish reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 562 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg