Taco Spaghetti Casserole

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When it comes to dinner that hits every craving at once, my Taco Spaghetti Casserole never lets me down. It brings the best of two worlds together: the saucy comfort of spaghetti and the bold, zesty flavors of tacos. I stumbled upon the idea during a busy weeknight when all I had was leftover taco meat and a box of pasta. I gave it a try, and to my surprise, it turned out to be one of the most loved meals in my house.

The beauty of this casserole lies in how simple it is to make, but the taste says otherwise. Every bite is loaded with savory seasoned ground beef, tender spaghetti, gooey cheese, and just enough spice to keep things exciting. It’s the type of meal that turns a regular night into something special, especially when it’s bubbling hot right out of the oven and topped with fresh cilantro and chopped tomatoes.

I’ve made this dish countless times for potlucks, casual dinners, and even game day spreads. It disappears fast, so don’t expect leftovers. It’s hearty, cozy, and a real crowd-pleaser. If you’re a fan of my Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti or Mexican Potatoes, then you’re going to fall hard for this one too.

Why You’ll Love This Taco Spaghetti Casserole

This dish is comfort food with a punch. It’s ideal for feeding a hungry family or batch cooking for the week. You get all the spice and excitement of taco night wrapped into a cheesy pasta bake. It’s quick to prep, flexible with what you have in the pantry, and absolutely satisfying.

The blend of melty cheese and taco-seasoned beef makes it irresistible. And unlike traditional pasta dishes, this one comes with a southwestern flair that gives it a unique spot in your dinner rotation. Whether you serve it with a side salad or enjoy it as a one-dish wonder, it’ll win hearts in your home.

How to Make Taco Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cook your spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Meat
In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until fully browned. Drain any excess grease, then stir in your taco seasoning and a splash of water. Simmer for a few minutes until well blended and thickened.

Step 3: Combine the Sauce
Add a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies and a can of tomato sauce to the seasoned beef. Let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes so the flavors marry.

Step 4: Mix Pasta and Meat Sauce
Toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet or combine everything in a large bowl. Stir until the noodles are evenly coated in the taco meat sauce.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese generously over the top.

Step 6: Bake
Place the dish in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, top with freshly chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or even sliced jalapeños if you like some extra heat.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Feel free to use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version. Vegetarian? Substitute with black beans and corn, or a meatless crumbled alternative.

You can switch the spaghetti for any pasta you have on hand — penne or rotini work great. If you want it creamier, stir in a dollop of sour cream or a splash of heavy cream before baking.

For extra spice, use hot taco seasoning or add chopped green chilies. You can also mix in some frozen corn or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.

Make it your own by topping it with crushed tortilla chips, avocado slices, or a drizzle of sour cream just before serving.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Taco Spaghetti Casserole is so full of flavor that it can stand alone as the star of the meal. Still, if you’re looking to round things out, I recommend serving it with a crisp green salad topped with a tangy lime vinaigrette or creamy ranch. A side of roasted corn or grilled zucchini works beautifully too.

If you want to keep the Tex-Mex vibe going, a batch of my Authentic 7-Layer Mexican Dip or some Broccoli Salad makes a great companion dish. And don’t forget tortilla chips or warm garlic bread on the side for scooping up every last bit.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, you’re in luck. Store the cooled casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also portion it out into meal-prep containers for easy lunches throughout the week.

To reheat, pop a serving in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm a larger portion in the oven at 325°F until heated through. If it looks a bit dry, stir in a tablespoon of water or cover with foil while baking.

This dish also freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven for best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Taco Spaghetti Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can fully assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not overly. It has a nice kick from the taco seasoning and tomatoes with green chilies. For more heat, add jalapeños or hot sauce. To tone it down, use mild seasoning.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. While spaghetti gives it a classic texture, other shapes like penne, rotini, or even macaroni will work just as well.

How can I make it gluten-free?

Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that your taco seasoning and canned ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I freeze individual portions?

Yes, you can portion the casserole into single servings and freeze them in airtight containers. Great for meal prepping or quick dinners!

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you love this Taco Spaghetti Casserole, then my Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti is a must-try. It’s rich, velvety, and made for slow cooking, offering an entirely different spin on spaghetti night.

Another favorite you might enjoy is Mexican Potatoes. It pairs wonderfully with anything taco-inspired and makes a fantastic side to this casserole.

Looking for more indulgent comfort food? Don’t skip Funeral Potatoes — creamy, cheesy, and baked until golden, they’re a comforting casserole lover’s dream.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t lose track of this one! Make sure to pin this Taco Spaghetti Casserole recipe to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find the next time your dinner plans need a bold, comforting twist.

And if you love it as much as I do, share it with your family and friends! Post it on Facebook, tag me in your Instagram creations, or send it to your dinner group. Spreading good food is what it’s all about.

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