Looking for a fun and delicious twist on classic spaghetti? Look no further! Cheesy Taco Spaghetti combines the savory goodness of taco flavors with the heartiness of pasta, topped with melty cheese and a dollop of creamy sour cream. This dish is comforting, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make – making it perfect for busy weeknights or a family dinner. Let’s dive into what makes this meal a total crowd-pleaser!
What’s in Cheesy Taco Spaghetti?
Spaghetti: The perfect base for this dish, spaghetti gives a lovely, chewy texture that soaks up all those delicious taco flavors. Whole wheat spaghetti adds a bit more nutrition, but regular spaghetti works just as well!
Ground Beef (or Turkey): This hearty protein adds richness and flavor. You can use ground turkey for a leaner version of the dish, but beef brings that classic taco flavor.
Onion: A small, chopped onion provides a subtle sweetness that balances the spices in the dish. Yellow onions are ideal because they caramelize beautifully as they cook.
Garlic: A key ingredient for enhancing flavor, garlic adds aromatic goodness to the dish. Freshly minced garlic really makes a difference!
Taco Seasoning: The magic sprinkle that infuses this dish with all the classic taco flavors. You can use a store-bought packet for convenience, or mix up your own with chili powder, cumin, and paprika for a more personalized touch.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: These bring a zesty kick and help create a flavorful sauce that coats the spaghetti. If you’re not fond of spice, go for plain diced tomatoes instead.
Beef Broth (or Water): Beef broth adds richness to the sauce, but water works in a pinch if you’re out of broth.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: The star of the show! The melty, creamy cheese binds everything together and gives the dish its irresistible flavor. Sharp cheddar is the best for extra tang, but feel free to use any cheese you love.
Sour Cream: This ingredient adds creaminess and a slight tang that balances the spices and richness of the cheese. You can swap in Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative.
Chopped Green Onions: These act as a fresh garnish, adding color and a crisp bite to the dish once it’s ready to serve.
Ingredients:
8 oz spaghetti
1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (14.5 oz)
2 cups beef broth (or water)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup sour cream
1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Cheesy Taco Spaghetti:
Cook the Spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain it and set it aside.
Cook the Meat: In a large skillet or pot, brown the ground beef (or turkey) over medium heat. Make sure it’s cooked through, then drain any excess fat.
Sauté the Onion & Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion becomes soft and translucent, filling the kitchen with an amazing aroma.
Add Seasoning & Tomatoes: Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with their juices, and beef broth. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Combine with Spaghetti: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss everything together so that the pasta is well-coated in the sauce.
Add Sour Cream & Cheese: Lower the heat and stir in the sour cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is creamy and smooth.
Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and cover the skillet. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt into a gooey, cheesy layer.
Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot. Enjoy this comforting dish with your favorite side or toppings!
Is Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Good for You?
This dish is full of flavor and some healthy nutrients too! Here’s a quick rundown of its nutritional value:
Spaghetti: A good source of carbohydrates for energy, especially after a busy day.
Ground Beef: Packed with protein, iron, and zinc for muscle health and immune function. Choose turkey for a leaner alternative.
Diced Tomatoes: Rich in vitamins C and K, plus antioxidants that support your immune system.
Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and is a good source of calcium. You can substitute with Greek yogurt for an even healthier option.
For extra nutrition, feel free to toss in beans, extra veggies, or a sprinkle of fiber-rich seeds!
Make It Your Own! Cheesy Taco Spaghetti is versatile and easily customizable:
Add black beans or corn for more texture and flavor.
Slice up jalapeños if you like a little extra heat.
Serve it alongside a fresh salad for an added crunch.
This dish is a fun and filling dinner everyone will love! Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this easy-to-make Cheesy Taco Spaghetti will become a go-to favorite.
