If you’re craving a fusion of Mexican flavors with the comfort of pasta, this One-Pot Taco Spaghetti is the answer. It’s a deliciously cheesy and hearty dish that combines the bold, zesty flavors of tacos with the satisfying texture of spaghetti—all made in one pot for easy cleanup. Perfect for weeknight dinners when you need something quick, filling, and packed with flavor!
Ingredients:
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups water
- 8 oz uncooked spaghetti
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
- Cook the Beef and Aromatics:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add garlic, onion, and ground beef. Break up the beef into chunks with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add Seasoning and Tomatoes:
- Stir in the taco seasoning and diced tomatoes. Pour in water, making sure everything is well mixed.
- Add the Spaghetti:
- Add the uncooked spaghetti to the skillet, making sure it is fully submerged in the liquid. If needed, break the spaghetti in half to fit. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer Until Spaghetti is Cooked:
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid. Simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spaghetti is tender and fully cooked. If the liquid evaporates too quickly, add a little more water as needed.
- Reduce the Liquid:
- Once the spaghetti is cooked, remove the lid and cook for a few more minutes until most of the excess liquid evaporates. You want a slightly saucy consistency.
- Add the Cheese:
- Turn off the heat and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the spaghetti. Cover the skillet with the lid again and let the cheese melt, about 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the lid, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve immediately.
Tips:
- Customize Your Protein: Feel free to swap ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegetarian version.
- Cheese Options: If you prefer a spicier kick, use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar, or mix in some shredded Mexican blend cheese.
- Extra Toppings: For added texture and flavor, serve this taco spaghetti with your favorite taco toppings such as sour cream, avocado, or crushed tortilla chips.
This dish is a crowd-pleaser and makes for great leftovers!
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