Name: Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (85% lean); 1 cup diced red onion; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 oz); 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes, undrained; 3 cups water; 8 oz dry spaghetti; 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

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Introduction

Cheesy Taco Spaghetti is a flavorful and easy one-pan meal that combines the zest of tacos with comforting pasta. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something quick, cheesy, and satisfying.

A large silver pan filled with cooked spaghetti mixed with ground meat, red chopped tomatoes, and bits of green herbs scattered on top; the spaghetti strands are golden yellow and intertwined with the chunky, brown meat and vibrant red tomato pieces, creating a textured, colorful mix. Around the pan are three wooden bowls, one filled with small red cherry tomatoes, another with chopped red onions, and a half lime and a sprig of fresh green cilantro on the white marbled surface, along with a folded blue cloth napkin near the pan handle. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup diced red onion
1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 oz)
1 can (10 oz) Rotel, undrained
8 oz dry spaghetti
3 cups water
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

Step 1: In a large deep skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced red onion and ground beef. Cook, breaking up the beef, until browned and the onions are softened, about 6–8 minutes.
Step 2: Drain excess grease from the pan if necessary.
Step 3: Add taco seasoning, diced tomatoes (with juice), dry spaghetti, and water directly into the skillet.
Step 4: Stir everything together and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Step 5: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 6: Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully combined.
Step 7: Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or extra tomatoes if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use spicy Rotel varieties.
Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Add black beans or corn for more texture and flavor.
Use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a different cheesy twist.

Storage

Store leftover cheesy taco spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying out.

How to Serve

A white plate is filled with a generous layer of cooked spaghetti mixed with browned ground meat and sautéed onions, with scattered chunks of bright red diced tomatoes and small green herb pieces throughout. On top, there is a sprinkle of melted yellow cheese and a dollop of white sour cream sitting in the center, topped with chopped purple onion pieces and a half slice of lime resting on the sour cream. In the background, a large shiny metal pan filled with more spaghetti can be seen, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other pasta shapes?

Yes, any pasta that cooks in about 12–15 minutes can be used, such as penne, rotini, or elbows. Adjust cooking time as needed.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

You can freeze leftover portions in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.