If you’re in search of a quick, delicious, and comforting dinner that the whole family will love, this One Pot Taco Spaghetti is the perfect choice. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish combines all the flavors of your favorite taco night with the cozy satisfaction of pasta. With ground beef, a mix of spices, Rotel tomatoes, and creamy cheese, this one-pot wonder is both easy to make and packed with flavor.
Why You’ll Love This One Pot Taco Spaghetti
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pot, making it a stress-free meal.
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes.
- Family-Friendly: The combination of taco flavors and cheesy spaghetti is a hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 Pound Lean Ground Beef: Provides a hearty, protein-rich base for the dish.
- 1 Tablespoon Chili Powder: Adds a mild heat and classic taco flavor.
- 1 Teaspoon Smoked Paprika: Enhances the dish with a subtle smokiness.
- 1/2 Teaspoon Ground Cumin: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- 1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder: Provides a savory, aromatic base.
- 1 Teaspoon Onion Powder: Adds sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- 3 Cups Beef Broth: Helps cook the spaghetti and creates a flavorful sauce.
- 1 (10 Ounce) Can Rotel Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies with Juices: Adds tanginess and a bit of spice.
- 4 Ounces Cream Cheese (1/2 Block Philly), Softened: Adds creaminess to the sauce.
- 8 Ounces Uncooked Spaghetti: The pasta that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- 1 Cup Mexican Blend Cheese: Melts into the dish, adding a cheesy finish.
- 1/4 Cup Chopped Scallions: Adds a fresh, slightly sharp contrast to the rich sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook Ground Beef:
- Start by adding the lean ground beef to a pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Cook the beef until it’s just browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, which should take about 7-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, spoon it out to avoid a greasy dish.
2. Add Spices:
- Stir in the chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mixing the spices directly into the beef allows them to bloom and enhance the flavor of the meat.
3. Combine Ingredients:
- Add the beef broth, Rotel tomatoes with their juices, and softened cream cheese to the pot. Increase the heat to high and stir the mixture until the cream cheese starts to melt into the sauce. It’s okay if it’s not fully melted by the time the mixture starts boiling.
4. Cook Spaghetti:
- Once the mixture reaches a boil, add in the uncooked spaghetti. Cook the pasta uncovered for about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Adjust the heat to maintain a steady simmer, ensuring the liquid is bubbling but not boiling too vigorously.
5. Add Cheese:
- After the spaghetti is cooked, turn off the burner but leave the pot on the stove. Sprinkle the Mexican blend cheese and chopped scallions over the top of the spaghetti. Cover the pot with a lid and let it sit for about 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the sauce to thicken.
6. Season and Serve:
- Once the cheese has melted and the sauce has reached your desired consistency, season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the taco spaghetti immediately, garnished with additional scallions or cheese if desired.
Tips for Success
- Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on your stove and pot, you may need to adjust the cooking time. If the pasta isn’t fully cooked but the liquid is running low, add a splash more beef broth. If there’s too much liquid, let it simmer a bit longer.
- Soften Cream Cheese Quickly: To soften the cream cheese quickly, microwave it for about 30 seconds.
- Shortcut: If you prefer, you can use a packet of taco seasoning in place of the individual spices.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 500 kcal (estimate)
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
Conclusion
This One Pot Taco Spaghetti is the perfect meal for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor. With minimal cleanup and maximum taste, it’s sure to become a family favorite. The blend of taco spices, creamy cheese, and tender spaghetti creates a dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to prepare. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a cozy, delicious dinner in just 30 minutes!