Baked Taco Spaghetti

When I first stumbled upon the idea of Baked Taco Spaghetti, I was looking for a way to combine two of my favorite foods into one delightful dish. It was a chilly evening, and I wanted something hearty that would satisfy my family’s cravings. The combination of flavors in this recipe is heavenly: the comforting, warm pasta mixed with the bold flavors of taco seasoning creates a dish that feels both familiar and exciting. As I prepared it, I could already envision my loved ones gathered around the table, laughter filling the air as they dug into their servings. What I love about Baked Taco Spaghetti is its versatility; it’s perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. Plus, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike! What’s not to love about cheesy, pasta goodness laden with taco flavors? This dish embodies comfort food at its best, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Now, let’s dive into the reasons why Baked Taco Spaghetti is a must-try recipe. You’ll discover how it can transform your meal times and why it resonates with so many of us.

What to Buy for Baked Taco Spaghetti

When preparing to make Baked Taco Spaghetti, it’s essential to gather fresh ingredients that will work harmoniously together. Each component contributes to the overall flavor profile, creating a balanced dish that pleases the palate. The key players in this recipe include spaghetti, ground beef, and a medley of cheeses, all bringing together that classic taco taste we adore.

• 1 lb spaghetti pasta: The foundation of our dish, spaghetti serves as the base, offering a delightful texture that pairs well with the sauce.
• 2 tbsp cooking oil: Used to sauté the onions, this oil adds flavor and helps the ingredients cook evenly.
• ½ onion – diced: The aromatic onion enhances the dish’s flavor profile, providing depth and sweetness.
• 1 lb ground beef: This hearty protein brings a savory element to the dish, essential for that taco taste.
• 2 1 oz packets of taco seasoning: This spice blend is key, delivering the vibrant flavors that define our dish.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: A hint of garlic elevates the overall flavor, enriching the taste experience.
• ⅓ cup water: Helps to combine the ingredients, ensuring everything is well mixed and flavorful.
• 1 14.5 oz can of diced fire roasted tomatoes: These tomatoes add acidity and freshness, balancing the rich flavors of the meat and cheese.
• 1 14 oz can of chopped green chilis: These chilis contribute a mild heat, enhancing the taco experience.
• 4 oz Velveeta: This processed cheese provides creaminess and meltiness, making the dish luscious.
• 4 oz cream cheese: Adds a rich, creamy texture that helps to bind everything together.
• 8 oz grated Mexican cheese: This cheesy topping brings everything together, creating a deliciously melty crust.
• Garnish – lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream: These fresh ingredients add a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the spaghetti.

Making Baked Taco Spaghetti

Now that we have our ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into making Baked Taco Spaghetti. This process is simple, yet rewarding, and I can’t wait for you to experience the incredible aromas and flavors that will fill your kitchen!

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your dish will cook evenly and the cheese will melt perfectly.
2. Prepare a baking dish by spraying it with cooking spray. This prevents the spaghetti from sticking, allowing for easy serving later.
3. In a large stockpot, fill it with about 5 quarts of water and place it on the stovetop over high heat to boil.
4. Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti noodles. Cook them until they reach an al dente texture, typically about 9 to 10 minutes, following the package instructions for precise timing.
5. While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, cooking until fragrant and translucent, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
6. Next, add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes. Once cooked, drain off any excess fat from the beef.
7. Add the taco seasoning, garlic powder, and ⅓ cup of water to the skillet. Stir to combine, allowing the water to absorb while the mixture simmers for about 2 to 3 minutes.
8. In this step, introduce the diced fire-roasted tomatoes and chopped green chilis, stirring them in along with the Velveeta and cream cheese. Turn off the heat once everything is well incorporated and creamy.
9. Once the spaghetti is ready, drain it in a colander and return it to the stockpot. Pour the meat mixture over the pasta, and stir well to ensure every noodle is coated with that savory goodness.
10. Transfer the meat and spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the grated Mexican cheese generously over the top, covering the dish.
11. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
12. Once done, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and sour cream as desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Recipe Variations about Baked Taco Spaghetti

There are numerous ways to elevate Baked Taco Spaghetti and customize it to fit your tastes. Here are some tips for making this delicious dish even more delightful!

• Adding Veggies: Consider mixing in chopped spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to sneak in some extra nutrition for your family.
• Using Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicier kick.
• Meat Alternatives: If you prefer a lighter option, try using ground turkey or a plant-based meat substitute.
• Spice It Up: If you enjoy heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Serving Styles: This dish can be served in bowls or as a casserole style. Pair with a fresh salad for a complete meal.

What to Serve With Baked Taco Spaghetti

Serving Baked Taco Spaghetti opens up a world of delicious pairings! Here are some fantastic ideas to enhance your dining experience:

• Side Salads: A crisp green salad with avocado and lime dressing pairs beautifully with the richness of the spaghetti.
• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a classic touch that complements the flavors.
• Fruits: Fresh fruits like melon or berries provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty dish.
• Beans: For added fiber, consider serving with a side of black beans or refried beans.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even a cozy dinner at home.
• Drinks: Pair with a chilled soda or a fruity iced tea for a refreshing option.
• Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers and reheated, making it a great meal prep option!

FAQ

Conclusion

Baked Taco Spaghetti is a delightful fusion of pasta and taco flavors that the whole family will love. It combines creamy textures and bold tastes into a comforting dish that can easily become a weeknight favorite. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the joy it brings to your table. You won’t be disappointed!

Baked Taco Spaghetti

The ultimate comfort food, Baked Taco Spaghetti combines rich and creamy textures with bold taco flavors. This easy weeknight dinner is perfect for the whole family and is sure to satisfy your cravings. Make it tonight for a deliciously cheesy experience!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 10 servings

Calories 570 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Oven
• Large Pot
• Grater
• Chef's Knife
• Cutting Board
• Mixing Bowl
• Wooden Spoon
• Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb spaghetti pasta
• 2 tbsp cooking oil
• ½ onion diced onion
• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 packets taco seasoning 1 oz packets
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ⅓ cup water
• 1 can diced fire roasted tomatoes 14.5 oz can
• 1 can chopped green chilis 14 oz can
• 4 oz Velveeta or any american cheese food
• 4 oz cream cheese ½ block
• 8 oz grated mexican cheese
• to taste garnish of lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream your choice

Instructions

 

• 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your dish will cook evenly and the cheese will melt perfectly.
• 2. Prepare a baking dish by spraying it with cooking spray. This prevents the spaghetti from sticking, allowing for easy serving later.
• 3. In a large stockpot, fill it with about 5 quarts of water and place it on the stovetop over high heat to boil.
• 4. Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti noodles. Cook them until they reach an al dente texture, typically about 9 to 10 minutes, following the package instructions for precise timing.
• 5. While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, cooking until fragrant and translucent, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
• 6. Next, add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes. Once cooked, drain off any excess fat from the beef.
• 7. Add the taco seasoning, garlic powder, and ⅓ cup of water to the skillet. Stir to combine, allowing the water to absorb while the mixture simmers for about 2 to 3 minutes.
• 8. In this step, introduce the diced fire-roasted tomatoes and chopped green chilis, stirring them in along with the Velveeta and cream cheese. Turn off the heat once everything is well incorporated and creamy.
• 9. Once the spaghetti is ready, drain it in a colander and return it to the stockpot. Pour the meat mixture over the pasta, and stir well to ensure every noodle is coated with that savory goodness.
• 10. Transfer the meat and spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the grated Mexican cheese generously over the top, covering the dish.
• 11. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
• 12. Once done, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and sour cream as desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

• Cooking Pasta: Always cook your spaghetti to al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite. This ensures it holds its texture during baking.
• Draining Fat: When cooking the ground beef, be sure to drain the fat completely to avoid a greasy outcome.
• Cheese Melting: For best results, allow the cheese to melt slowly in the oven. Keeping the dish covered for the first few minutes can help achieve that.
• Flavor Enhancements: Feel free to add other spices or ingredients like cumin or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
• Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Keyword Baked Taco Spaghetti, easy spaghetti recipes, Family-Friendly Dinner, taco pasta bake

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Meet Camila Rivera

I’m Camila, and I believe the very best meals are the ones that bring the whole family together. My passion is taking classic, beloved dishes and adding a spicy or zesty twist to wake up your palate. I have cooked, tweaked, and taste-tested this recipe right here in my own home kitchen to ensure it works perfectly for you. I hope you enjoy every single bite let me know how it turns out!