Spaghetti with Tacos for Dinner

 

Taco Spaghetti Casserole

Taco Spaghetti Casserole is an exciting take on a classic evening dish, fusing the spiciness of tacos with the heartiness of spaghetti. When you're having trouble deciding between Italian and Mexican for dinner, this is the way to go. Tacos and spaghetti come together in this one-dish recipe that is sure to be a hit at any gathering, whether it's a family gathering or a potluck.

Even without the accompanying light side salad served in a citrus vinaigrette, the rich and savory casserole would be a perfect complement. Garlic bread or steamed veggies provide a nice complement and help keep things healthy. Why not start with some guacamole and chips if you're going for a really festive vibe?

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 8 oz. cooked spaghetti
• 1 lb of ground meat
• 1 (1 oz.) packet of taco seasoning
• 1.5 cups of water
• 1/2 cup of salsa
• 1/2 cup of defrosted corn kernels
• 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup of sliced black olives (optional)
• 1/4 cup of sour cream for drizzling over top (optional)
• 1/4 cup of chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

1. Set oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).

2. Cook the Ground Beef (10 minutes)

1. Brown the ground beef in a big pan over medium heat until it's no longer pink; remove any extra fat.
2. Turn the heat up to high and add the taco seasoning and water. Stir to combine. Simmer, covered, for 5 minutes to thicken.
3. Turn the heat back up and stir in the corn and salsa.

3. Combine with Spaghetti (5 minutes)

1. In a big bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with the taco meat mixture. Coat the spaghetti completely by tossing it.

4. Assemble the Casserole (5 minutes)

1. Measure out a greased 9x13-inch baking dish and transfer the mixture to it. Top with black olives and shredded cheese.

5. Bake (30 minutes)

1. Bake for 20 minutes with the foil cover in a preheated oven.
2. After 20 minutes, take the foil off and bake for 10 more minutes, or until the cheese starts to bubble and brown.

6. Serve (5 minutes)

1. Before serving, garnish with cilantro, green onions, and sour cream.

Tips and Variations

• You may make it leaner by using ground chicken or turkey instead of beef.
• For those following a vegetarian diet, there are a few options for protein: plant-based substitutes, more beans, and quinoa.
• To up the heat level, you may include sliced jalapeños or more spicy salsa into the mixture.
• Pepper jack, when mixed with cheddar, adds another dimension of taste, and cheese aficionados will adore it.