Imagine your two favorite weeknight cravings—tacos and pasta—joining forces in one irresistible dish! The Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is pure comfort food magic, bringing together twirly noodles, a zesty beef filling, and a melting crown of cheese in every forkful. It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight and festive enough for a weekend potluck, making it a true hero in any home cook’s dinner lineup. Every bite bursts with satisfying flavors, colorful veggies, and just the right touch of heat. If you’re searching for an easy, family-friendly meal that never fails to impress, this casserole is the answer.

Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how a handful of familiar, everyday ingredients come together to create something so unforgettable! Each one truly has a job to do, whether it’s building a hearty base, adding depth to the sauce, or delivering that signature cheesy finish.

Spaghetti (12 oz): The perfect, twirlable foundation for soaking up all those taco flavors—cooked just until al dente for the best texture.
Ground beef (1 lb): Brings savory richness and holds its own against bold seasonings—feel free to swap for ground turkey or chicken as you like.
Onion (1 small, chopped): Adds sweetness and aroma, helping to create a flavorful backdrop for the beef.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Provides a fragrant punch—freshly minced garlic is always worth the extra minute.
Taco seasoning mix (1 packet): Instantly delivers those classic south-of-the-border spices; use your favorite brand or homemade.
Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (1 can, 10 oz, undrained): A single can brings tang, juiciness, and gentle heat—don’t drain it, that liquid is flavor gold!
Tomato sauce (1 can, 8 oz): Binds the ingredients and gives the sauce a silky, rich texture.
Sour cream (½ cup): Adds a creamy tang and helps mellow out the spices—stir it in off the heat so it stays smooth.
Cheddar cheese, shredded (1½ cups): Brings melty sharpness to every bite; grate it fresh if possible for superior melt.
Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (½ cup): Balances with creaminess and stretches into ooey-gooey perfection.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For sautéing the onion and garlic, drawing out their best flavors at the start.
Salt and pepper to taste: Bring everything into delicious harmony; taste as you go!
Chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños (optional): The perfect fresh, colorful finish—add as much or as little as you like for an extra kick.

How to Make Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Start by boiling your spaghetti in a big pot of salted water until it’s just al dente—this will let the noodles soak up sauce without getting mushy once baked. Drain the pasta and set it aside; you’re already halfway to creamy, cheesy comfort.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion first and let it soften for a few minutes until it turns translucent and smells sweet. Toss in the minced garlic for just 30 seconds—long enough to perfume your kitchen without burning.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Crumble the ground beef into your skillet with the onion and garlic. Cook, stirring and breaking it up, until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease to keep your casserole light and luscious.

Step 4: Build the Taco Sauce

Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and pour in the entire can of Rotel (don’t drain—it’s all flavor!) plus the tomato sauce. Stir to combine, then let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. This lets all those spices bloom and everything meld together into a deeply tasty sauce.

Step 5: Stir in Sour Cream

Take the skillet off the heat and stir in the sour cream. It’s the secret to a creamy, tangy sauce that wraps every strand of spaghetti in goodness. If you add it while still on the heat, the sour cream may curdle—so timing is everything!

Step 6: Mix with Spaghetti

In a large bowl, toss the cooked spaghetti with your beef-taco mixture until every noodle is coated. This step ensures that every bite is loaded with zesty, creamy flavor.

Step 7: Layer and Cheese It Up

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, smoothing it out evenly. Sprinkle the top generously with cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, making sure you cover every inch for that signature bubbling, golden crust.

Step 8: Bake

Bake the casserole at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is gloriously melted and everything is hot and bubbly. The smell alone will have hungry eaters gathering in the kitchen!

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

As soon as your casserole comes out of the oven, sprinkle it with fresh chopped cilantro and, if you’re feeling bold, a scatter of sliced jalapeños. Serve it up warm and watch it disappear.

How to Serve Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Before serving, don’t hesitate to top your Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe with chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or even a dollop of extra sour cream. For those who crave heat, sliced jalapeños or a hot sauce drizzle add the perfect punch and brilliant color.

Side Dishes

A fresh, simple green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette pairs beautifully, cutting through the richness. Add some warm tortilla chips and salsa on the side or even a scoop of Mexican street corn for a festive touch. These easy pairings round out the meal without stealing the spotlight.

Creative Ways to Present

Try scooping portions into colorful bowls and topping each with a different garnish—think avocado slices, diced tomatoes, or crushed corn chips for crunch. Or serve it potluck-style, letting guests load up their own plates at the table for a fun, family-style feast. However you present it, the Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe always brings big smiles.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature, then cover it well or transfer to airtight containers. It keeps in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors even improve by the next day, making it a dream come true for leftovers.

Freezing

This recipe is freezer-friendly! Assemble the unbaked casserole (hold off on the final cheese layer), cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, sprinkle on the cheese, and bake as directed.

Reheating

Reheat portions in the microwave or warm up the entire dish, covered, in a 350°F oven until hot throughout. To keep the casserole moist, add a splash of water or chicken broth before reheating. Top with fresh cilantro and jalapeños after warming for the perfect finish.

FAQs

Can I make the Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for your favorite plant-based ground meat substitute, or use black beans, pinto beans, or even lentils for a protein-rich vegetarian option. The casserole is just as comforting and flavorful.

Is it possible to make the casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the entire dish up to two days ahead. Simply assemble, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, bake it until the cheese is bubbly and everything is piping hot. It’s perfect for hectic schedules!

What kind of cheese works best for this recipe?

Cheddar and Monterey Jack are classics, delivering a balance of sharpness and melt. If you’d like to mix it up, try using pepper jack for a little extra kick or a Mexican blend for extra creaminess.

How can I adjust the spice level?

You control the heat! Use mild Rotel and skip the jalapeños for a gentle version, or add hot Rotel, extra taco seasoning, or sliced fresh peppers for spice lovers. The Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is easy to tailor to everyone’s tastes.

Can I use a different type Main Course

Of course! While spaghetti gives the dish its satisfying, twirlable character, you can use penne, rotini, or any short pasta if that’s what you have on hand. Just cook them al dente, and you’re golden.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving hearty flavors and family-friendly fun, you simply have to make this Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe. With its bold taste, comforting texture, and easy prep, it’s sure to earn a place in your regular dinner rotation. Give it a try and share the joy—your table will thank you!

Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

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4.6 from 9 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful fusion of tacos and spaghetti in a cheesy, comforting casserole dish that the whole family will love. This Taco Spaghetti Casserole is easy to make and perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Spaghetti:

12 oz spaghetti

Beef Mixture:

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion (chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 packet taco seasoning mix
1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained)
1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
½ cup sour cream
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cook the spaghetti until al dente, drain, and set aside.
In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic. Add beef, cook until browned, drain grease.
Add taco seasoning, Rotel, and tomato sauce. Simmer, then stir in sour cream.
Combine spaghetti with beef mixture. Transfer to baking dish.
Top with cheeses and bake. Garnish and serve warm.