If you are on the lookout for a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish, this Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is going to become your new favorite weeknight hero. Bringing together the bold spices of a classic taco with the familiar warmth of spaghetti, this casserole perfectly balances creamy, cheesy, and zesty elements in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is straightforward enough for busy nights yet impressive enough to make everyone ask for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this tasty Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe, you’ll use simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a vital role in building layers of texture and flavor. From tender pasta and hearty chicken to melty cheese and tangy salsa, every component works harmoniously to make this dish truly special.
- 8 ounces thin spaghetti or angel hair pasta: Cooked al dente to give the casserole a delicate yet satisfying bite.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded: Adds protein and a meaty base that soaks up the surrounding flavors beautifully.
- 2 cups Mexican blend cheese, divided: Melts perfectly for gooey, cheesy goodness on top and inside the casserole.
- 2 cans (10 ounces each) cream of chicken soup: Brings creamy richness that keeps the casserole moist and luscious.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds a tangy creaminess that balances the spices and enriches the texture.
- 1 cup salsa: For that iconic salsa flavor with mild heat and vibrancy that wakes up the whole dish.
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning: The secret spice blend that infuses the casserole with authentic taco flavor.
- Fresh chopped cilantro for topping (optional): A fresh, herbal pop that brightens each serving.
How to Make Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Dish
Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your casserole won’t stick and will come out perfectly baked and golden on top.
Step 2: Combine Key Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, chopped or shredded chicken, 1 cup of the Mexican blend cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, salsa, and taco seasoning. This blend is where the magic happens — each ingredient brings something special, from creamy richness to taco-spiced zest and melty cheese goodness.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Pour the combined mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cup of cheese over the top to form a beautiful, bubbly crust as it bakes. Cover the dish and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until it’s hot and bubbly, letting all those flavors meld deliciously together.
Step 4: Cool and Garnish
After baking, allow the casserole to cool slightly so it firms up and becomes easier to serve. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro if you like a fresh herbal note to contrast the rich casserole.
How to Serve Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro or even a dollop of sour cream on top elevates the whole dish, giving it a fresh, vibrant finish that cuts through the creamy, cheesy layers beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed in lime vinaigrette or sliced avocado on the side to add a cooling, creamy texture that complements the warm spices.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in mini ramekins or use wonton wrappers to transform the casserole ingredients into baked taco cups. This Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is versatile and can easily be dressed up or down to suit your occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a wonderful next-day meal that reheats beautifully.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well if stored before baking. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.
Reheating
Reheat servings in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If reheating in the oven, cover loosely with foil to prevent extra browning and bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground beef works wonderfully with the spices and texture of this casserole. Just brown and drain it before mixing it into the ingredients.
What type of pasta works best?
Thin spaghetti or angel hair pasta is ideal, as it cooks quickly and blends smoothly with the creamy taco mixture. However, you can try other types like elbow macaroni or penne if you prefer.
Is this recipe spicy?
The heat level depends on the salsa and taco seasoning you use. To keep it mild, choose milder salsa varieties and seasoning blends, or adjust the amounts to your taste.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the chicken with beans or sautéed vegetables and use a vegetarian cream soup option. The flavor stays fantastic even without meat.
How creamy is the casserole?
This casserole is delightfully creamy thanks to the combination of cream of chicken soup and sour cream, creating a luscious texture that holds the pasta and spices together perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re craving something cozy with a kick or looking for a new way to enjoy Mexican flavors, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Give it a try and watch it disappear in no time!
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Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Taco Spaghetti Casserole is a delightful fusion dish combining the flavors of Tex-Mex taco ingredients with comforting baked spaghetti. Featuring tender chicken, creamy sour cream, salsa, and melted Mexican blend cheese, this casserole is a quick and crowd-pleasing meal perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta and Protein
- 8 ounces thin spaghetti or angel hair pasta, cooked al dente
- 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded
Dairy and Sauce
- 2 cups Mexican blend cheese, divided
- 2 cans (10 ounces each) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
Seasoning
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- Fresh chopped cilantro for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta and chopped or shredded chicken. Then stir in 1 cup of the Mexican blend cheese, both cans of cream of chicken soup, sour cream, salsa, and the taco seasoning. Mix everything thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese evenly over the top. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to cool slightly for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro if desired, then serve warm for a delicious and comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute the chicken with ground beef or turkey for a different protein option.
- For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or a hotter salsa variety.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat covered in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and verify the soup and taco seasoning are gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
