Ultimate Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Are you ready to revolutionize your weeknight dinner game with a dish that combines the best of tacos and pasta into one glorious Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Casserole? This recipe is a game-changer, a crowd-pleaser, and a family favorite all rolled into one delicious casserole dish. Picture this: savory ground beef seasoned with taco spices, mixed with chili beans, tomato sauce, and velvety Velveeta cheese, all tossed with tender spaghetti noodles, topped with a blanket of gooey shredded cheese, and baked to bubbly perfection. Yes, it’s as mouthwatering as it sounds!

Let me share a little secret with you – this Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Casserole has the power to turn even the pickiest of eaters into enthusiastic fans. Don’t just take my word for it; my kids polished off their plates quicker than ever, and my neighbor Karen, a meal-prep aficionado, now swears by this recipe for its simplicity and unbeatable flavor. The magic happens in the oven as the flavors meld together, creating a dish that’s comforting, satisfying, and downright irresistible. So, if you’re looking for a stress-free yet incredibly delicious meal that will earn you rave reviews at the dinner table, this Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Casserole is your answer. Go ahead, give it a try, and watch it become a staple in your weekly meal rotation!

Quick Benefits

• Family-Friendly: Picky eaters love it, making it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Easy Weeknight Meal: Quick to prepare, uses pantry staples, and perfect for busy nights.
• Leftovers Approved: Tastes just as good the next day, making it a great make-ahead option.
• Versatile Serving Options: Customize with toppings like sour cream, salsa, or hot sauce, and pair with tortilla chips for added crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Ultimate Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe Recipe

• Perfect Fusion of Tacos and Pasta: This recipe combines the flavors of a taco with the comfort of spaghetti, offering a unique and delicious twist that will surprise your taste buds.
• Family Favorite: Kids and picky eaters love this dish—proof that it’s a hit even with the toughest critics. It’s a great way to please everyone at the dinner table.
• Simple Yet Impressive: Despite its simplicity, this casserole has the power to impress even the most discerning foodies. It’s a great option for a casual weeknight meal or when entertaining guests.
• Meal Prep Champion: Ideal for meal prep enthusiasts, this dish can be made ahead and enjoyed throughout the week, making busy weeknights a breeze.
• Universal Appeal: With the option to customize with toppings like sour cream, salsa, hot sauce, and tortilla chips, this casserole caters to a variety of tastes, ensuring everyone can enjoy it their way.
• Easy Cleanup and Serving: The short resting time after baking allows the sauce to thicken, making serving less messy. Plus, the dish reheats well, so you can enjoy it fresh even as leftovers.
• Pantry Staples: Using mostly pantry ingredients, this recipe eliminates the need for special grocery runs, making it a convenient go-to meal when you’re short on time but still want a satisfying homemade dinner.

Ingredients for Ultimate Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 15 oz can tomato sauce
• 15 oz can chili beans, undrained
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1 pound box thin spaghetti noodles
• 16 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 packet taco seasoning

How to Make Ultimate Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Get Ready

Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of water and cook the spaghetti noodles as per package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

While the pasta is cooking, brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Break up beef as it cooks until no pink remains. Stir in taco seasoning and water until well combined.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Combine undrained chili beans, tomato sauce, and cubed Velveeta cheese with the cooked beef in the skillet. Simmer on low heat until the Velveeta is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Combine the creamy beef and bean mixture with the drained spaghetti noodles in the pot. Stir until noodles are coated and mixture is well combined.

Step 6: Transfer and Top

Transfer the spaghetti mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.

Step 7: Bake and Serve

Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and the dish is bubbly. Serve hot.

Storage Tips

Once you have baked the Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Casserole until bubbly, allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This short resting period allows the sauce to slightly thicken and cling better to the noodles, preventing a messy plate. When ready to store any leftovers, ensure the casserole has cooled to room temperature. Transfer any remaining portions into airtight containers or cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil. Store the dish in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm larger portions in the oven until heated through.

To freeze the Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Casserole for future meals, let it cool completely before portioning it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Label the containers with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, allow the casserole to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating it in the oven until warmed through. This make-ahead friendly dish is perfect for busy weeknights or for meal-prepping ahead of time.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to make some ingredient substitutions for this Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Casserole, feel free to get creative! For a vegetarian version, you can swap the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or diced mushrooms for a meaty texture. To make it spicier, consider using hot chili beans or adding diced jalapeños to the mix. If you’re out of taco seasoning, you can easily make your own blend using chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.

In terms of cheese, if you don’t have Velveeta on hand, you can substitute it with a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheddar for a creamy and cheesy texture. As for the shredded cheese topping, feel free to use any type of cheese you prefer or have available, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of different cheeses for added flavor. Remember, cooking is all about personal preference, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients to tailor the dish to your liking or dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and interactive serving suggestion, try setting up a “Taco Spaghetti Bar” where guests can customize their own plates. Set out bowls of toppings like diced tomatoes, sliced olives, chopped cilantro, jalapenos, and avocado slices for people to add to their casserole servings. This not only adds a colorful and fresh element to the dish but also allows everyone to tailor their meal to their own tastes.

To elevate the presentation, consider serving individual portions in mini cast-iron skillets or ramekins for a cozy and rustic feel. Top each serving with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped green onions before bringing them to the table. This creates a charming and personal touch that enhances the dining experience and makes each guest feel special.

FAQs for Ultimate Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of pasta if you prefer. Feel free to experiment with different shapes and sizes to see what you like best!

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a great lean alternative to ground beef in this recipe. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before mixing it with the other ingredients.

Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Once it has completely cooled, you can portion it out into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this casserole by using plant-based ground “meat” or crumbles instead of beef. You can also add more beans or vegetables like bell peppers and corn to enhance the dish’s flavor and texture.

Conclusion

I hope this Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Casserole finds its way onto your dinner table soon, becoming a beloved go-to recipe in your household just like it has in mine. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, its universal appeal, and its ability to bring everyone together around a comforting and flavorful meal. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner or simply a food lover seeking a hearty and satisfying dish, this casserole is sure to hit the spot every time.

So go ahead, whip up a batch of this Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Casserole, savor each cheesy, taco-infused bite, and relish in the joy of sharing a meal that brings smiles and satisfaction to all who gather around your table. Here’s to the power of good food to nourish not just our bodies but also our souls. Cheers to many more delightful meals shared with loved ones over a steaming dish of Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Casserole!

Ultimate Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

A family-favorite Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Casserole that combines taco flavors with spaghetti, sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time15 Minutes

Cook Time20 Minutes

Total Time35 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings8 Servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 15 oz can tomato sauce
• 15 oz can chili beans, undrained
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1 pound box thin spaghetti noodles
• 16 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 packet taco seasoning

Instructions

1. Get Ready: Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of water and cook the spaghetti noodles as per package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Brown the Beef: While the pasta is cooking, brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Break up beef as it cooks until no pink remains. Stir in taco seasoning and water until well combined.
4. Make the Sauce: Combine undrained chili beans, tomato sauce, and cubed Velveeta cheese with the cooked beef in the skillet. Simmer on low heat until the Velveeta is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Combine Everything: Combine the creamy beef and bean mixture with the drained spaghetti noodles in the pot. Stir until noodles are coated and mixture is well combined.
6. Transfer and Top: Transfer the spaghetti mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
7. Bake and Serve: Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and the dish is bubbly. Serve hot.