Name: One Pot Taco Spaghetti
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients: Base: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 cup yellow onion, diced; 4 1/2 tablespoons taco seasoning; Sauce: 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 10 oz diced tomatoes (canned); Pasta: 8 oz spaghetti; 3 cups water; Toppings: 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1 Roma tomato, diced; 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

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This One Pot Taco Spaghetti is the ultimate weeknight dinner quick, hearty, and bursting with Tex-Mex flavors! Made with ground beef, taco seasoning, and cheesy goodness, this dish combines the comfort of spaghetti with the bold flavors of a taco. Best of all, it’s cooked in one pot for easy cleanup!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pot Wonder: Minimal dishes for easy cleanup.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes.
Bold Flavors: Taco seasoning and cheese bring a Tex-Mex twist to classic spaghetti.
Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or switch up the ingredients to make it your own.
Family-Friendly: A guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup yellow onion, diced
4 1/2 tablespoons taco seasoning
1 tablespoon tomato paste
10 oz diced tomatoes (canned, with juices)
8 oz spaghetti
3 cups water
1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 Roma tomato, diced
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

Directions

1. Cook the Beef and Onions

Heat olive oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, diced onions, and taco seasoning. Cook until the beef is browned and crumbled, about 3-5 minutes.

2. Add the Tomatoes

Stir in the tomato paste and diced tomatoes, ensuring everything is well combined.

3. Cook the Spaghetti

Add the spaghetti to the pot, followed by the water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the spaghetti cooks evenly and doesn’t stick.

4. Add Cheese and Toppings

Once the pasta is cooked through, remove the pot from heat. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, diced Roma tomato, and chopped cilantro. Stir until the cheese is melted and everything is well mixed.

5. Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with additional tomato and cilantro if desired. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Protein Swap: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and add black beans, corn, or diced bell peppers.
Extra Cheesy: Double the cheese or add a sprinkle of queso fresco on top.
Mexican Flair: Top with avocado slices, sour cream, or a drizzle of hot sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Penne, fusilli, or linguine work well as substitutes. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. What if I don’t have taco seasoning?

Make your own by mixing chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and salt.

3. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Absolutely! Substitute with 2 cups of diced fresh tomatoes.

4. How can I make this dish creamier?

Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese at the end for a creamy texture.

5. Is this dish spicy?

It’s mildly spiced. To make it milder, reduce the taco seasoning, or use a low-sodium, mild blend.

6. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the dish and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving, adding a bit of water if needed.

7. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, zucchini, or corn are great additions.

8. Can I use a non-dairy cheese?

Yes, substitute with your favorite plant-based cheese for a dairy-free version.

9. How do I keep the pasta from sticking?

Stir occasionally while cooking, and ensure the pasta is fully submerged in liquid.

10. What can I serve with this dish?

Pair it with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or tortilla chips for a complete meal.

Conclusion

One Pot Taco Spaghetti is a delicious and easy weeknight dinner that combines the best of tacos and spaghetti into one irresistible dish. With bold flavors, cheesy goodness, and minimal cleanup, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and enjoy a Tex-Mex twist on pasta tonight!