Description
Spicy Mexican-inspired taco spaghetti combines zesty ground beef, pasta, and melted cheese in one skillet. Quick weeknight comfort brings family together with bold southwestern flavors and simple ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning (1 ounce)
Base Ingredients:
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth (beef broth or water can be used)
- 1 cup milk
Vegetables and Cheese:
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 small green bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup salsa (any flavor, more as desired)
- 1 cup Mexican cheese blend, shredded
- Toppings as desired
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown ground beef with diced onions over medium-high heat, crumbling meat until no pink remains. Drain excess grease.
- Sprinkle taco seasoning over the beef mixture and cook for an additional minute to intensify flavors.
- Pour broth, milk, and salsa into the skillet, then mix in chopped bell peppers.
- Raise heat and bring liquid to a rolling boil. Carefully add spaghetti, ensuring it’s mostly submerged.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover skillet, and simmer for 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- After pasta reaches desired tenderness, remove from heat and let stand uncovered for 5 minutes to absorb remaining liquid.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and gently stir until completely melted and incorporated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or salsa as needed.
- Serve hot, garnishing with optional fresh cilantro or green onions for extra brightness.
Notes
- Drain beef thoroughly to prevent a greasy dish and ensure a crisp, clean flavor profile.
- Use lean ground beef (90/10) for a healthier version without sacrificing taste and reducing excess fat.
- Choose fresh bell peppers for maximum crunch and vibrant color, adding texture to the spaghetti.
- Experiment with different cheese blends like pepper jack or Mexican blend for a more complex flavor experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch, Snacks
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg