The rich flavors are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, satisfying even the pickiest eaters. Why wait for a fiesta? You can create this mouthwatering Taco Spaghetti Casserole masterpiece with surprising ease. Try it tonight—you won’t believe how simple and utterly satisfying this fantastic Taco Spaghetti Casserole recipe is! This Taco Spaghetti Casserole will become a family favorite.

Ingredients

To create this incredibly satisfying Taco Spaghetti Casserole, you’ll need a combination of hearty proteins, flavorful seasonings, comforting pasta, and of course, plenty of cheese! Each component plays a vital role in building the layers of taste and texture that make this dish a family favorite. Consider these elements carefully for the best Taco Spaghetti Casserole.

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1 pound lean ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken): Using lean ground beef (like 90/10 or 85/15) is a great choice as it provides fantastic flavor without excessive grease for your Taco Spaghetti Casserole. If you opt for a higher fat content, be sure to drain off any excess after browning. You can learn more about the Nutritional Information for Ground Beef to make an informed choice. Ground turkey or chicken are also excellent, lighter alternatives for your Taco Spaghetti Casserole.
1 medium yellow onion, chopped: The aromatic base of many great dishes, a chopped yellow onion adds a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed. White or red onions can be substituted based on your preference for the Taco Spaghetti Casserole.
1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional, but recommended): Adds a lovely crunch, a hint of fresh vegetal flavor, and vibrant color to the Taco Spaghetti Casserole. Red, yellow, or orange bell peppers work wonderfully too.

2 cloves garlic, minced: Freshly minced garlic offers an unbeatable aromatic punch. While garlic powder can be used in a pinch (about 1/2 teaspoon), fresh is always best for depth of flavor in your Taco Spaghetti Casserole.
1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning: This is where the signature “taco” flavor comes in for your Taco Spaghetti Casserole! You can use your favorite store-bought brand or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own. If you’re curious about what goes into it, check out our guide on what is taco seasoning made of?. For a deep dive into homemade versions, this Taco Seasoning Guide is a fantastic resource.
2/3 cup water (or beef broth for richer flavor): This helps to create a sauce with the taco seasoning and ensures the meat mixture isn’t too dry in your Taco Spaghetti Casserole. Beef broth will add an extra layer of savory depth.

1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained: These add moisture, tanginess, and body to the sauce for the Taco Spaghetti Casserole. Fire-roasted diced tomatoes are a great option for a smoky flavor boost.
1 can (10 ounces) Ro*Tel Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies, undrained (mild or original): This is a classic ingredient for adding a zesty kick and a bit of Tex-Mex flair to your Taco Spaghetti Casserole. If you prefer less heat, opt for the mild version.
1 jar (16 ounces) salsa (your favorite kind – mild, medium, or hot): Choose a salsa that you love, as its flavor will significantly influence the final taste of your Taco Spaghetti Casserole. A chunky salsa can add nice texture.

8 ounces spaghetti, uncooked: The classic pasta choice for this Taco Spaghetti Casserole. You’ll cook it separately until al dente. Other pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni also work well as they capture the sauce beautifully.
2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack): The crowning glory of your Taco Spaghetti Casserole! A Mexican blend typically includes Colby, Monterey Jack, Asadero, and Queso Quesadilla cheeses, all of which melt beautifully. Feel free to use your favorite melting cheese or a combination. You’ll use some in the mixture and reserve plenty for the top of your Taco Spaghetti Casserole.
Optional additions for the meat mixture:
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained: Adds extra protein, fiber, and a lovely textural contrast to your Taco Spaghetti Casserole.
- 1 cup frozen corn, thawed: Introduces a touch of sweetness and another layer of texture. These additions can make your Taco Spaghetti Casserole even heartier.
User-Provided Tip: For extra richness and a creamier texture in your Taco Spaghetti Casserole meat sauce, stir in 2-4 tablespoons of cream cheese or a generous dollop of sour cream into the meat mixture after it has simmered with the taco seasoning and tomatoes. Allow it to melt and incorporate fully.

Universal Tip 1: Salt your pasta water generously – it should taste like the ocean! This is the primary opportunity to season the pasta itself, ensuring every bite of your Taco Spaghetti Casserole is flavorful.
Universal Tip 2: Always taste and adjust seasonings before assembling and baking your Taco Spaghetti Casserole. The saltiness of your taco seasoning, salsa, and cheese can vary, so a final taste test is crucial. You might need an extra pinch of salt, pepper, or even a dash of cumin or chili powder to perfect your Taco Spaghetti Casserole.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Taco Spaghetti Casserole. Preparing this dish is straightforward, and I’ll guide you through each part to ensure a perfect result every time. Remember, cooking should be enjoyable, so let’s get started on this flavorful journey to an amazing Taco Spaghetti Casserole!

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1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when your Taco Spaghetti Casserole is ready to bake, promoting even cooking.
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish lightly with cooking spray or a thin layer of butter. This prevents the Taco Spaghetti Casserole from sticking, making serving and cleanup much easier.

2. Cook the Spaghetti:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. As mentioned in our ingredients, salting the water like the ocean is crucial for flavoring the pasta from the inside out for your Taco Spaghetti Casserole.
Add the 8 ounces of spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. “Al dente” means “to the tooth” – the pasta should be tender but still have a slight bite. This is important because the pasta will continue to cook a little more in the oven, and starting with al dente pasta prevents it from becoming mushy in your Taco Spaghetti Casserole.
Drain the spaghetti well and set it aside. You can toss it with a tiny drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking if it will sit for a while before being added to your Taco Spaghetti Casserole.

3. Prepare the Flavorful Taco Meat Sauce for your Taco Spaghetti Casserole:

Brown the 1 pound of ground beef in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Use a spatula to break the meat into smaller crumbles as it cooks. Searing the beef properly develops a deep, savory flavor base, which is fundamental for a rich and unforgettable Taco Spaghetti Casserole.
Drain any excess grease from the skillet. This step is especially important if you’re not using very lean ground beef, as it prevents the Taco Spaghetti Casserole from being oily.
Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped 1 medium yellow onion and 1 chopped green bell pepper (if using) to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened. This step builds another layer of flavor for the Taco Spaghetti Casserole.

Stir in the 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter and affect the taste of your Taco Spaghetti Casserole.
Season the meat: Add the 1 packet of taco seasoning and 2/3 cup of water (or beef broth) to the skillet. Stir well to combine, ensuring the meat is evenly coated with the seasoning. If you’re making your own seasoning, now’s the time to add it. If you want to know more, this Taco Seasoning Guide offers excellent tips for your Taco Spaghetti Casserole.
Simmer the sauce: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. This is a key step for developing the rich taco taste in your Taco Spaghetti Casserole.

Incorporate tomatoes and salsa: Stir in the 1 can of undrained diced tomatoes, 1 can of undrained Ro*Tel Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies, and the 1 jar of salsa. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure a consistent flavor in your Taco Spaghetti Casserole.
Optional additions: If you’re using black beans or corn for your Taco Spaghetti Casserole, stir them in now.
Creamy rich tip: If you’re aiming for that extra creamy texture mentioned in the ingredients for your Taco Spaghetti Casserole, this is when you’d stir in the cream cheese or sour cream until melted and smooth.

Taste and adjust: Sample the meat sauce. Does it need more salt, a pinch of chili powder for heat, or perhaps a squeeze of lime juice for brightness? Adjust to your liking. This is your Taco Spaghetti Casserole, so make it perfect for your palate! This step is crucial for a well-balanced Taco Spaghetti Casserole.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce for the Taco Spaghetti Casserole:

Add the cooked and drained spaghetti directly to the skillet with the taco meat sauce.
Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure all the spaghetti strands are well-coated with the delicious sauce. This ensures every bite of your Taco Spaghetti Casserole is packed with flavor.

Stir in 1 cup of the shredded Mexican blend cheese. Mixing some cheese into the pasta mixture of your Taco Spaghetti Casserole, rather than just layering it on top, creates pockets of melted cheesy goodness throughout the casserole.

5. Assemble the Taco Spaghetti Casserole:

Transfer the spaghetti and meat sauce mixture to the prepared 9×13 inch baking dish. Layering is key to a perfect Taco Spaghetti Casserole.
Spread it out evenly with a spatula. This ensures consistent baking for your Taco Spaghetti Casserole.

Top generously with the remaining 1 cup of shredded Mexican blend cheese, covering the entire surface. Don’t be shy with the cheese – it’s a key component of a great Taco Spaghetti Casserole!

6. Bake to Golden Perfection:

Bake in the preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for the Taco Spaghetti Casserole to be heated through, the sauce bubbly around the edges, and the cheese on top melted, golden brown, and delicious.
Safety check: For casseroles containing ground meat, it’s always good practice to ensure they reach a safe internal temperature. Refer to Casserole Safety Tips for guidance on your Taco Spaghetti Casserole.

Rest before serving: Once baked, carefully remove the Taco Spaghetti Casserole from the oven. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve, and also prevents you from burning your mouth on super-hot cheese! Each step contributes to the final deliciousness of this Taco Spaghetti Casserole.

7. Garnish and Serve:

Garnish your masterpiece! Freshly chopped cilantro, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, sliced green onions, crushed tortilla chips for crunch, or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce can elevate your Taco Spaghetti Casserole even further.
Serve hot and enjoy the delightful fusion of flavors in your Taco Spaghetti Casserole!

This Taco Spaghetti Casserole is a fantastic meal that I’m sure you and your family will love. The combination of familiar spaghetti with zesty taco flavors in this Taco Spaghetti Casserole is truly a winner.

Serving Ideas

Your delicious Taco Spaghetti Casserole is a hearty and flavorful main course that pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments, transforming a simple meal into a complete and satisfying feast. When considering what to serve alongside your Taco Spaghetti Casserole, think about textures and flavors that complement the rich, cheesy, and slightly spicy notes of the casserole.

For a refreshing contrast, a crisp green salad is an excellent choice. I recommend a simple mix of romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette dressing – perhaps a lime or cilantro-lime vinaigrette to echo the Tex-Mex theme of the Taco Spaghetti Casserole. The coolness and crunch of the salad provide a lovely balance to the warmth and richness of the main dish. Another fantastic pairing is warm cornbread or corn muffins. Their slight sweetness and crumbly texture are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from your Taco Spaghetti Casserole. A side of Mexican street corn (elote) would also be a thematic and delicious addition to your Taco Spaghetti Casserole meal.

When it comes to plating your Taco Spaghetti Casserole, presentation can enhance the dining experience. Serve generous portions on individual plates. For an extra touch of flair and flavor, garnish each serving of the Taco Spaghetti Casserole with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro or green onions, and perhaps a few crushed tortilla chips for a delightful crunch.

A wedge of lime on the side allows guests to add a burst of citrusy brightness if they desire. These simple touches not only make the dish look more appealing but also add layers of texture and fresh taste to your already amazing Taco Spaghetti Casserole. When you serve this Taco Spaghetti Casserole, these additions will impress your guests. The visual appeal of your Taco Spaghetti Casserole matters too!

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about making and enjoying your Taco Spaghetti Casserole. I’ve tried to cover common queries to help you achieve the best results and customize this Taco Spaghetti Casserole to your liking!

1. Can I make Taco Spaghetti Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! This Taco Spaghetti Casserole is a fantastic make-ahead meal. You have a couple of options:

Full Assembly: You can assemble the entire Taco Spaghetti Casserole (without baking), cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before placing it in the preheated oven to allow it to come closer to room temperature. You might need to add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if your Taco Spaghetti Casserole is going in cold.
Component Prep: Alternatively, you can cook the meat sauce and spaghetti separately and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Then, when you’re ready, simply combine, assemble in the baking dish, top with cheese, and bake as directed. This method can sometimes yield a slightly better texture for the pasta in your Taco Spaghetti Casserole.

2. How do I store and reheat leftover Taco Spaghetti Casserole?

Leftover Taco Spaghetti Casserole stores beautifully! Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer individual portions to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Storing your Taco Spaghetti Casserole correctly ensures it stays delicious.

To reheat:

Oven (recommended for best results): Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover Taco Spaghetti Casserole (either in the original dish or an oven-safe container) and cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. For the last 5-10 minutes, you can remove the foil if you want the cheese to crisp up a bit.

Microwave: For individual portions of Taco Spaghetti Casserole, place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat for 1-3 minutes, or until hot. The texture might be slightly softer than oven-reheated.

Always ensure leftovers are reheated to a safe internal temperature; you can refer to Casserole Safety Tips for specific guidelines for your Taco Spaghetti Casserole.

3. Can I use different pasta shapes for this Taco Spaghetti Casserole?

Yes, definitely! While spaghetti is classic, many other pasta shapes work wonderfully in this Taco Spaghetti Casserole. Medium-sized shapes that can hold onto the sauce well are ideal for your Taco Spaghetti Casserole. Consider using:

Rotini (corkscrews)
Penne (tubes)
Elbow macaroni

Shells (medium)
Ziti or rigatoni

Cook any pasta shape you choose to al dente, just as you would with the spaghetti for your Taco Spaghetti Casserole. The amount (8 ounces dry) should remain roughly the same.

4. What are some vegetarian or vegan alternatives for this Taco Spaghetti Casserole recipe?

Making a vegetarian or vegan Taco Spaghetti Casserole is quite achievable with a few substitutions:

Vegetarian: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative (like Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger), or use a hearty mixture of crumbled extra-firm tofu (pressed and seasoned), lentils (cooked green or brown lentils work well), or a combination of finely chopped mushrooms and walnuts for a “meaty” texture in your Taco Spaghetti Casserole. Ensure your taco seasoning is vegetarian. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Vegan: In addition to the vegetarian protein swaps for your Taco Spaghetti Casserole, you’ll need to use a vegan cheese alternative for both mixing in and topping the casserole. Also, if you add cream cheese or sour cream for richness, opt for their vegan counterparts. Double-check that your salsa and Ro*Tel are vegan-friendly (most are, but it’s good to confirm).

5. Can I freeze Taco Spaghetti Casserole?

Yes, Taco Spaghetti Casserole freezes quite well, making it a great option for meal prepping. Many home cooks ask about freezing their Taco Spaghetti Casserole for later.

To Freeze: Bake the Taco Spaghetti Casserole as directed and let it cool completely. You can freeze it directly in the baking dish if it’s freezer-safe and has a good lid, or wrap it tightly with a layer of plastic wrap followed by a layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Alternatively, divide your Taco Spaghetti Casserole into individual freezer-safe containers. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
To Thaw and Reheat: Thaw your frozen Taco Spaghetti Casserole overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 25-35 minutes, or until heated through. If baking from frozen (not generally recommended for best texture but possible), you’ll need to significantly increase the baking time for your Taco Spaghetti Casserole, potentially up to an hour or more, keeping it covered for most of that time.

6. How can I adjust the spice level of my Taco Spaghetti Casserole?

Customizing the heat in your Taco Spaghetti Casserole is easy! Adjusting the spice level is key to personalizing your Taco Spaghetti Casserole.

To Make it Milder: Use a mild taco seasoning, mild salsa, and omit the Ro*Tel or use plain diced tomatoes instead for your Taco Spaghetti Casserole. Ensure your bell pepper isn’t a spicy variety.
To Make it Spicier: Choose a hot taco seasoning, a spicy salsa, and use original or hot Ro*Tel. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the meat sauce, or incorporate diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled) along with the onions and bell peppers into your Taco Spaghetti Casserole. Serving with your favorite hot sauce on the side is also a great option.

I hope these answers help you create the perfect Taco Spaghetti Casserole for your family and friends! If you love easy, flavorful meals, you might also enjoy exploring other casserole ideas like our Taco Crock Pot Hashbrown Casserole, another fantastic Taco Spaghetti Casserole alternative.

Conclusion

This Taco Spaghetti Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a weeknight game-changer, a crowd-pleasing champion, and a delightful fusion of flavors that I’m confident will become a staple in your home. The ease of preparation, combined with the hearty satisfaction it delivers, makes this Taco Spaghetti Casserole an absolute winner. From the savory taco-seasoned meat to the tender spaghetti and the glorious melted cheese on top, every bite of this Taco Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting and exciting experience. It’s the perfect way to bring a little fiesta to your dinner table any night of the week with this wonderful Taco Spaghetti Casserole! The versatility of this Taco Spaghetti Casserole recipe allows for many creative tweaks.

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Here are a few Pro Tips to elevate your Taco Spaghetti Casserole even further:

For an extra layer of smoky flavor in your Taco Spaghetti Casserole, try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika to your meat mixture along with the taco seasoning.
To achieve an extra crispy cheese topping on your Taco Spaghetti Casserole, switch your oven to the broil setting for the last 1-2 minutes of baking, keeping a very close eye on it to prevent burning.

Want to switch things up? Consider these variations for your next Taco Spaghetti Casserole adventure:

Spicy Chorizo Twist for Taco Spaghetti Casserole: Substitute half or all of the ground beef with spicy Mexican chorizo (casings removed) for an extra kick and a deeper, smoky flavor profile in your Taco Spaghetti Casserole.
Creamy Salsa Verde Taco Spaghetti Casserole Bake: Instead of traditional red salsa, use a creamy salsa verde. You can achieve this by blending green salsa with a bit of sour cream or cream cheese before adding it to the meat mixture. This gives the Taco Spaghetti Casserole a tangy and unique twist.

I truly hope you enjoy making and eating this Taco Spaghetti Casserole as much as I do! This Taco Spaghetti Casserole is truly a versatile dish that will delight everyone.

Delicious Taco Spaghetti Casserole

Print Recipe

This Taco Spaghetti Casserole is a delicious and easy weeknight meal that your whole family will love! It combines the flavors of tacos and spaghetti into one comforting dish.

Author: Kiera

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking

Cuisine: Mexican-American

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning

1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
8 ounces spaghetti, cooked according to package directions

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

In a large skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
Stir in taco seasoning, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes and green chilies. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine the meat sauce and cooked spaghetti.

Pour the spaghetti mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve with your favorite taco toppings.

Notes

For a spicier casserole, use hot taco seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat sauce. You can also add other vegetables, such as onions, bell peppers, or corn, to the meat sauce.