One-Pot Taco Spaghetti

This one-pot taco spaghetti brings together the hearty goodness of ground beef and classic taco flavors, combined with tender spaghetti, in a quick and easy meal. The addition of melted cheese, fresh tomato, and cilantro creates an irresistible dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.

Why You’ll Love It:

This one-pot taco spaghetti is a weeknight wonder for several reasons:

Easy Cleanup: Say goodbye to piles of dishes! Everything cooks in one pot, saving you precious time.
Flavor-Packed: A combination of taco seasoning, tomato paste, and two types of cheese ensures bold and cheesy bites.
Family-Friendly: Kids love it, adults love it—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Quick Cook Time: Ready in about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for those days when you need dinner on the table fast.

This recipe is the perfect blend of taco Tuesday and pasta night, so why not treat yourself to a flavor-packed twist that’ll leave everyone asking for seconds?

Key Ingredients:

Ground Beef: For a leaner option, swap the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. Prefer plant-based? Substitute with a ground meat alternative for a vegetarian version.
Taco Seasoning: Use homemade taco seasoning for a more customized flavor profile or opt for a low-sodium version if you’re watching your salt intake.
Tomatoes: If you don’t have diced tomatoes on hand, crushed tomatoes or fire-roasted tomatoes can add a smoky touch.
Spaghetti: Regular spaghetti works beautifully here, but feel free to use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.
Cheese: The blend of cheddar and mozzarella brings the perfect melty finish. Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend can be excellent swaps for added creaminess.

Flavor Enhancers:

Tomato Paste: Don’t skip this! It adds a concentrated tomato flavor that deepens the overall taste.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of freshness that complements the richness of the dish. For cilantro haters, parsley is a milder alternative.

Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Ground Beef and Onions:

Heat Olive Oil: In a large stockpot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add Beef and Onions: Add 1 pound of ground beef, 1 medium yellow onion (diced), and 1 packet of taco seasoning to the pot.
Brown the Beef: Cook for 3-5 minutes or until the beef is browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Ensure the onions are soft and fragrant.

2. Add Tomato Paste and Diced Tomatoes:

Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes (with juice). Mix well until combined.

3. Add Spaghetti and Water:

Break 8 oz of spaghetti in half and add it to the pot.
Pour in 3 ½ cups of water, ensuring the spaghetti is mostly submerged.
Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
Simmer: Once boiling, cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. Cook until the spaghetti is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

4. Add Cheeses and Toppings:

Remove from Heat: Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from the heat.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the spaghetti.
Mix and Melt: Stir until the cheeses are melted and evenly incorporated.
Garnish: Top with 1 diced Roma tomato and 2 tablespoons of chopped cilantro. Mix gently to distribute the toppings.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve immediately while warm. Garnish with extra Roma tomato and cilantro, if desired.
Enjoy your hearty, cheesy one-pot taco spaghetti!

Serving Suggestions:

Elevate your one-pot taco spaghetti with these tasty pairings:

1. Fresh Salad

A simple green salad with a tangy lime vinaigrette or a Mexican-style salad with black beans, corn, and avocado adds a refreshing contrast.

2. Tortilla Chips and Dips

Serve with tortilla chips and guacamole or salsa for a crunchy side that pairs well with the flavors of the dish.

3. Mexican Street Corn (Elote)

Sweet, smoky street corn adds a complementary touch and echoes the dish’s Tex-Mex flair.

4. Cheesy Garlic Bread

Try garlic bread topped with a sprinkle of taco seasoning for a unique twist that soaks up the sauce beautifully.

5. Beverage Pairings

Pair with iced tea and lime, a chilled Mexican beer, or fruity agua fresca for a refreshing drink.

6. Garnishes

Offer sour cream, sliced avocado, or hot sauce as optional toppings for extra flavor.

Storage/Meal Prep Tips:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to restore moisture.
Freezing: This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, and reheat directly from frozen in a covered pan over low heat.
Meal Prep: You can prepare the cooked ground beef and onion mixture ahead of time. Store it in the fridge, and when ready to cook, follow the steps starting from adding the tomato paste and diced tomatoes.

Variations:

Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein or sautéed mushrooms for a meaty texture.
Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños to the beef and onion mixture or use a spicier taco seasoning.
Mexican Street Corn Twist: Stir in a cup of roasted corn kernels before adding the cheese for a fun take on Mexican street corn flavors.
Creamy Option: Add a splash of heavy cream after the cheese for an indulgent, creamy finish.
Toppings Galore: Top with sliced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of green onions for added depth and texture.

Conclusion:

One-pot taco spaghetti is the perfect fusion dish for those who crave the flavors of a hearty taco night but with the twist of pasta. It’s versatile, simple, and leaves you with only one pot to clean. So, get ready to whip up a dinner that’s full of bold flavors, minimal effort, and maximum satisfaction!

Enjoy the taste of tacos in every bite of spaghetti, and don’t be surprised when this becomes your new family favorite.