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Taco Spaghetti

Taco Spaghetti combines the bold flavors of Mexican tacos with the comforting essence of Italian spaghetti, creating a fusion dish that's bursting with flavor.

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Pot for boiling pasta
  • Colander
  • Mixing spoon
  • Cheese grater (if using fresh cheese)

Ingredients
  

  • For the Taco Meat:
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning mix
  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1/4 cup water
  • For the Spaghetti:
  • 8 oz spaghetti
  • Salt for pasta water
  • For the Assembly:
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese shredded
  • 1/4 cup sour cream optional
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives optional
  • Fresh cilantro chopped (for garnish)
  • Jalapeño slices for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Spaghetti:
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Prepare the Taco Meat:
  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
  • Once the beef is about halfway cooked, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and the onions are soft.
  • Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, and water. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  • Combine Spaghetti and Taco Meat:
  • Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the taco meat. Toss well to ensure the spaghetti is evenly coated with the taco sauce.
  • Add Cheeses:
  • Sprinkle the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the top of the spaghetti. Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil, allowing the heat to melt the cheese.
  • Garnish and Serve:
  • Once the cheese is melted, remove from heat. Dollop sour cream on top, and sprinkle with sliced black olives, chopped cilantro, and jalapeño slices if using.
  • Serve hot, allowing guests to mix the creamy, cheesy top layer into the spicy spaghetti as they dish it out.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.