Taco Spaghetti Casserole

If you love tacos and pasta, this Taco Spaghetti Casserole is the perfect fusion of both. Loaded with ground beef, taco seasoning, cheese, and pasta, this easy-to-make casserole is a delicious weeknight meal that the entire family will love. It’s simple, cheesy, and bursting with Mexican-inspired flavors that make every bite irresistible.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
4. Cook Notes & Tips
5. Variations
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
7. Conclusion

Ingredients

For Taco Spaghetti Casserole

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
• 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 8 ounces spaghetti, broken in half
• 1 can (10 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh cilantro or green onions (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions, until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Add the Flavor

1. Add the taco seasoning to the skillet, stirring to coat the beef mixture. Then, stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies and beef broth. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Add the beef mixture to the bowl and stir until well combined.
2. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly and top with the remaining shredded cheese.

Step 5: Bake

1. Cover the casserole with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

1. Once baked, let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions if desired.

Cook Notes & Tips

• Spaghetti: Breaking the spaghetti in half before cooking helps make it easier to mix and serve.
• Creamy Texture: Adding the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream gives the casserole a creamy texture. You can substitute with cream of chicken soup if you prefer.
• Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite taco toppings, such as diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or sliced black olives for extra flavor.

Variations

• Spicy Taco Spaghetti: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Chicken Version: Use ground chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter version.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with black beans or a meat substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

2. How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

3. Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?

Absolutely! While spaghetti works great, you can use penne, rigatoni, or any other pasta shape you prefer.

4. What Should I Serve with This Casserole?

This casserole is great on its own, but it also pairs well with a simple green salad, Mexican rice, or garlic bread.

Taco Spaghetti Casserole is a flavorful, comforting dish that combines the best of both worlds: taco night and pasta night. With its creamy texture, savory beef, and cheesy goodness, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. It’s easy to make, hearty, and perfect for feeding a hungry family.

Happy cooking!