Description
What do you get when you combine the bold flavors of tacos with the comforting appeal of pasta? Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Bake! This recipe is the ultimate fusion dish, loaded with seasoned beef, creamy Velveeta cheese, and perfectly cooked spaghetti, all baked into one gooey, bubbly casserole. Perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners, this dish is sure to become a household favorite!
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
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil.
- Add the spaghetti pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes).
- Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside until needed.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef and cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking it into crumbles with a wooden spoon.
- Once the beef is fully browned, drain any excess grease if necessary.
Step 3: Add Taco Flavor
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked ground beef and stir to coat evenly.
- Pour in the 2/3 cup of water and mix well.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes, letting the seasoning absorb into the beef.
Step 4: Create the Cheesy Sauce
- Lower the heat to medium-low. Add the cubed Velveeta cheese, undrained diced tomatoes and green chilies, and the cream of chicken soup to the skillet.
- Stir constantly until the Velveeta cheese has melted completely and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the cheesy taco sauce.
- Use tongs or a large spoon to toss the spaghetti and ensure it’s evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Spoon the spaghetti mixture into the baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is fully melted and bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish cool slightly for 5 minutes.
Step 8: Serve
- Scoop the cheesy taco spaghetti bake onto plates or into bowls.
- Garnish with your favorite toppings like sour cream, diced avocado, or crushed tortilla chips, if desired.
- Pair with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal!
Notes
- Pasta Alternatives: While spaghetti works great in this recipe, you can substitute it with penne, rotini, or fettuccine for a different twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef with a plant-based alternative or use black beans for a hearty vegetarian dish.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or diced jalapeños for extra heat!
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or milk and warm in the microwave or oven to maintain creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex