Ingredients:
- 2 lbs Ground beef
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (or your preferred brand of diced tomatoes)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 package spaghetti noodles (about 12 oz)
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (4 oz) green chilies (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking beef)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Sour cream
- Chopped green onions
- Jalapeños
- Cilantro
- Additional shredded cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the spaghetti noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 9-11 minutes, or until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet or pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it up into smaller pieces with a spoon or spatula.
- Cook for about 7-8 minutes or until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add Taco Seasoning:
- Once the beef is cooked, stir in the taco seasoning and Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies).
- Add the tomato sauce and green chilies (optional) for extra flavor. Mix well.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Combine Beef Mixture with Spaghetti:
- Add the drained spaghetti noodles into the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir until the noodles are well-coated with the sauce.
- If you want a creamier texture, you can add a small amount of sour cream or cream cheese at this stage.
5. Add Cheese:
- Once everything is combined, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mixture.
- Allow the cheese to melt into the spaghetti, stirring to combine it thoroughly.
6. Serve:
- Serve the Taco Spaghetti hot, garnished with your favorite toppings like sour cream, chopped green onions, cilantro, jalapeños, or more shredded cheese.
Benefits of Taco Spaghetti:
- Quick and Easy: This meal takes about 30-40 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Kid-Friendly: With its cheesy, savory flavors, this dish is usually a big hit with children.
- Customizable: You can adjust the level of spice by choosing mild or hot Rotel and adding or omitting jalapeños. You can also swap out the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Q&A:
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
- A: Yes, you can make Taco Spaghetti ahead of time! You can prepare the entire dish, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to serve.
Q: Can I use a different kind of pasta?
- A: Absolutely! While traditional spaghetti works best, you can substitute with any pasta you like, such as penne, rotini, or fusilli.
Q: Can I make Taco Spaghetti spicy?
- A: Yes, you can easily adjust the heat by using spicy taco seasoning, hot Rotel, or adding extra jalapeños. If you prefer a milder version, stick to regular taco seasoning and mild Rotel.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
- A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze Taco Spaghetti for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before storing in a freezer-safe container.
Taco Spaghetti is a tasty and hearty dish that combines the best of both worlds: tacos and spaghetti. It’s simple to make, full of flavor, and sure to be a favorite in your household!