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Easy One-Pot Taco Spaghetti Recipe with Cheesy Crispy Beef

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A quick and easy one-pot taco spaghetti with a cheesy, crispy beef topping that combines nostalgic flavors with a southwestern twist. Perfect for busy weeknights and casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20, preferably grass-fed)
  • 8 ounces uncooked spaghetti (regular or whole wheat)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: chopped fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, sour cream, avocado slices

Instructions

  1. Prep your ingredients by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. Measure out spices and liquids.
  2. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add ground beef, breaking it up, and cook until mostly browned (about 5 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon taco seasoning.
  3. Push beef to one side. Add onion and garlic to the cleared space and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
  4. Stir in diced tomatoes with juices, tomato sauce, beef broth, remaining taco seasoning, and uncooked spaghetti (break spaghetti in half if needed). Stir gently to submerge pasta.
  5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover with lid slightly ajar and simmer, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and liquid mostly absorbed (12-15 minutes).
  6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Increase heat to medium and cook uncovered for 4-5 minutes until cheese melts and crisps. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  7. Remove from heat and let sit for 1-2 minutes. Garnish with optional toppings like cilantro, jalapeños, sour cream, or avocado slices.

Notes

If pasta isn’t tender but liquid is absorbed, add more broth or water and continue cooking. For crispy cheese topping, cook uncovered on medium heat and watch closely. To avoid burnt cheese, lower heat and cover loosely if needed. Leftovers thicken; add broth or water when reheating. Vegetarian and gluten-free adaptations available.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot, taco spaghetti, cheesy beef, quick dinner, easy recipe, weeknight meal, comfort food, southwestern, pasta, ground beef

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