If you’re looking to add a fun twist to your weeknight dinners, this Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Bake is the perfect recipe. Combining the bold flavors of a classic taco with the comforting appeal of a pasta bake, this dish is a delightful fusion that will please both taco lovers and pasta enthusiasts. It’s easy to prepare, full of cheesy goodness, and sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want to indulge in something delicious, this Taco Spaghetti Bake delivers on all fronts.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of lean ground beef
- 1 package of cubed Velveeta cheese (8 ounces)
- 1 packet (1 ounce) of taco seasoning
- 1 can of undrained diced tomatoes and green chilies (10 ounces)
- 1 can of cream of chicken soup (10.5 ounces)
- 1 and 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 box of spaghetti pasta (8 ounces)
- 2/3 cup of water
Instructions:
- Cook the Spaghetti:
Pour water into a large pot, season it with a dash of salt, and heat it until it reaches a rolling boil. Stir in the spaghetti and cook it until it’s firm to the bite, following the instructions on the package. Once the pasta is cooked, pour it into a colander to drain, and set it aside until you’re ready to use it. - Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet, cook the lean ground beef over medium heat until fully browned. - Add Taco Flavor:
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the browned beef, stirring to coat the meat evenly. Pour in the 2/3 cup of water and stir well. Let the mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together. - Create the Cheesy Sauce:
Reduce the heat to low, then add the cubed Velveeta cheese, undrained diced tomatoes and green chilies, and the cream of chicken soup to the skillet. Keep stirring constantly until the cheese has completely melted and the mixture becomes velvety and uniform. - Combine with Pasta:
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated with the cheesy taco sauce. Ensure the spaghetti is evenly mixed with the beef and sauce. - Prepare for Baking:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spoon the spaghetti mixture into a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then top with the shredded cheddar cheese. - Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly. - Serve:
Take the dish out of the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes to cool down before serving. This Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Bake pairs perfectly with a side of fresh salad or garlic bread.
Conclusion:
This Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Bake is a delightful way to bring together two favorite cuisines into one satisfying dish. The combination of tender spaghetti, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce creates a meal that’s bursting with flavor and sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Simple to prepare and loaded with taste, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something comforting with a twist. Enjoy the fusion of tacos and pasta in this easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing bake!