Here’s the full recipe for Taco Spaghetti:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 2/3 cup water
- 1 can Rotel Tomatoes (or diced tomatoes as a substitute)
- 8oz spaghetti
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1-2 small cans of tomato paste (depending on desired sauciness)
Instructions:
- Cook the spaghetti noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add the taco seasoning and 2/3 cup of water to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Stir well to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- In a large pot, combine the cooked spaghetti noodles and the seasoned ground beef mixture.
- Add the can of Rotel Tomatoes (or diced tomatoes) to the pot. If using diced tomatoes, you can add additional seasoning such as chili powder, cumin, or paprika for extra flavor.
- Stir in the tomato paste until well combined, adjusting the amount based on your desired level of sauciness.
- Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the spaghetti is heated through and the flavors are well blended.
- Once heated through, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the spaghetti mixture.
- Cover the pot with a lid and let it sit for a few minutes, allowing the cheese to melt.
- Serve the Taco Spaghetti hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or sliced green onions if desired.
Enjoy your delicious and flavorful Taco Spaghetti! It’s a satisfying and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
some popular questions and their answers related to Taco Spaghetti
- Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef in Taco Spaghetti?
- Yes, you can definitely use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to ground beef in Taco Spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly as poultry tends to cook faster than beef.
- What are some optional toppings I can add to Taco Spaghetti?
- You can customize Taco Spaghetti with a variety of toppings such as diced avocado, chopped tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, black olives, sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips for added texture and flavor.
- Can I make Taco Spaghetti ahead of time and reheat it later?
- Yes, Taco Spaghetti can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce, stirring occasionally until heated through.
- Is Taco Spaghetti freezer-friendly?
- Yes, Taco Spaghetti can be frozen for longer storage. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Can I add beans to Taco Spaghetti for extra protein and fiber?
- Absolutely! Adding drained and rinsed black beans or kidney beans to Taco Spaghetti is a great way to boost its nutritional content. Simply stir in the beans along with the other ingredients during cooking.
- What can I serve with Taco Spaghetti as a side dish?
- Taco Spaghetti pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as a simple green salad, cornbread, Mexican rice, or refried beans for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Can I make Taco Spaghetti vegetarian or vegan?
- Yes, you can make Taco Spaghetti vegetarian or vegan by substituting the ground beef with plant-based ground meat alternatives or using extra beans and vegetables. Ensure that all other ingredients used are vegetarian or vegan-friendly.
Feel free to ask if you have any more questions or need further assistance!