Description
This Taco Spaghetti recipe combines the bold flavors of taco seasoning with the comfort of a classic spaghetti dish. Ground beef cooked with onions and garlic is simmered in salsa and taco seasoning, then tossed with spaghetti pasta and finished with creamy sour cream and melted cheddar cheese. Garnished with fresh green onions and cilantro, it’s a quick and delicious twist perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 ounces spaghetti
Beef Mixture
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 ounce)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cup salsa
Finishing & Garnish
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti: Prepare the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside for later use.
- Brown the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook while breaking it apart with a spoon until it is fully browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent, approximately 3 minutes.
- Add taco seasoning and simmer: Stir in the taco seasoning packet and water. Let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, allowing flavors to meld.
- Combine salsa and spaghetti: Add the salsa and the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Stir thoroughly to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the flavorful sauce.
- Incorporate sour cream: Lower the heat to low and mix in the sour cream until fully blended, creating a creamy texture throughout the dish.
- Melt cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the pasta mixture. Allow the cheese to melt gently for 1 to 2 minutes, covering the skillet if needed to help it melt evenly.
- Serve and garnish: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with the chopped green onions and cilantro just before serving to add freshness and color.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- If you prefer spicier food, add a dash of hot sauce or use a spicy salsa.
- For a dairy-free version, omit sour cream and cheddar cheese or use plant-based alternatives.
- This dish can be reheated in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent dryness.
- To save time, use pre-chopped onions and pre-minced garlic if desired.
