The Best Crockpot Taco Spaghetti Recipe for Family Dinners

Weeknight dinners just got easier with this mouthwatering crockpot taco spaghetti that blends Italian and Mexican flavors into one incredible dish.

Pasta lovers will adore how simple ingredients create something so deliciously complex.

Minimal prep means maximum enjoyment for busy cooks seeking comfort food magic.

Each bite promises a zesty adventure that satisfies both kids and adults at the table.

Layers of seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and tender noodles combine in a slow cooker symphony.

Forget complicated cooking techniques – this recipe brings serious flavor without stress.

Come hungry and leave happy with a meal that practically makes itself.

Taco Spaghetti In The Crockpot – Taste Adventure

• Simplify Weeknight Dinners: Toss ingredients into the crockpot and let it work its magic, creating a delicious meal with minimal hands-on cooking time.
• Customize Your Comfort: Top this hearty dish with your favorite garnishes like sour cream, avocado, or cilantro to make it uniquely yours.
• Crowd-Pleasing Fusion: Blend the beloved flavors of tacos with classic spaghetti, making it a hit for both kids and adults who crave something familiar yet exciting.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimize cleanup with this single-pot recipe that combines protein, pasta, and bold seasonings in one convenient crockpot preparation.

Taco Spaghetti Ingredient Essentials

• Ground Beef: A rich and hearty meat that provides the main protein base for this taco-inspired dish.
• Diced Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the ground beef.

• Spaghetti: The pasta that creates the classic noodle texture in this fusion recipe.
• Taco Seasoning: A blend of spices that gives the dish its signature Mexican-inspired flavor profile.
• Diced Tomatoes: Provides moisture and a tangy base for the sauce.
• Tomato Sauce: Enhances the overall tomato flavor and helps create a rich liquid base.
• Beef Broth: Adds extra depth and helps cook the pasta while keeping the dish moist.

• Shredded Cheese: Melts to create a creamy, gooey texture that brings the dish together.
• Sour Cream, Diced Avocado, Cilantro, Jalapenos: Optional toppings that add freshness, heat, and additional layers of flavor to the final dish.

Steps For Crockpot Taco Spaghetti Magic

Step 1: Brown the Meat and Aromatics

Sizzle ground beef and diced onions in a skillet until perfectly browned.

Drain away any extra grease to keep things light and tasty.

Step 2: Transfer to Slow Cooker

Dump the delicious beef mixture into your trusty crockpot, getting ready for flavor magic.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

• Taco seasoning
• Diced tomatoes
• Tomato sauce
• Beef broth

Stir everything together until well combined and looking mouthwatering.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Base

Cover the crockpot and let it work its magic on low heat for 3-4 hours.

Your kitchen will smell incredible!

Step 5: Add Pasta Magic

Break spaghetti into pieces and gently stir into the sauce, making sure every strand gets cozy and submerged.

Cover and cook for another hour until pasta reaches perfect tenderness.

Step 6: Cheese It Up

Sprinkle in shredded cheese and stir until it melts into a creamy, dreamy consistency.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

• Sour cream
• Diced avocado
• Fresh cilantro
• Sliced jalapeños

Enjoy your ultimate comfort food creation!

Tips For Creamy Taco Spaghetti

• Remove extra fat from ground beef to keep the dish lighter and prevent a greasy texture.
• Snap pasta into similar-sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
• Monitor moisture during cooking to prevent dry or undercooked spaghetti, adding extra broth if needed.
• Adjust taco seasoning or add mild/hot versions to suit different taste preferences and heat tolerances.
• Stir cheese gradually and off-heat to create smooth, creamy consistency without causing separation.

Taco Spaghetti: Bold Mix-In Options

• Vegetarian Protein Swap: Replace ground beef with black beans, lentils, or crumbled tofu for a plant-based version that maintains the hearty texture and flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free spaghetti or zucchini noodles to make the dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities while keeping the Mexican-inspired taste.
• Spicy Chicken Alternative: Substitute ground beef with shredded chicken for a leaner protein option that adds a different protein profile to the classic recipe.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Hack: Swap spaghetti with riced cauliflower to create a low-carb, keto-friendly version that still captures the essence of the original taco spaghetti.

Serving Spaghetti For Family Night

• Mexican Fiesta Platter: Arrange the taco spaghetti on a large colorful platter surrounded by crispy tortilla chips and fresh salsa for a vibrant presentation.
• Family-Style Gathering: Serve directly from the crockpot at the center of the table, allowing everyone to scoop their own portion with extra toppings nearby.
• Tex-Mex Loaded Bowl: Create individual servings in deep bowls, generously topping each with fresh chopped cilantro, diced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, and sprinkled jalapeños for extra zest.
• Meal Prep Magic: Package cooled leftovers in meal prep containers with separate compartments for toppings, making quick lunches for the next few days that stay fresh and delicious.

Taco Spaghetti Storage Ideas

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
• Transfer cooled spaghetti to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. Remove excess air and freeze for up to 2 months. Label with date and contents.
• Place portion in microwave-safe dish. Add splash of beef broth to prevent dryness. Cover and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed.
• Pour leftovers into skillet. Add small amount of beef broth or water. Stir gently over medium-low heat until heated evenly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and maintain creamy texture.

FAQs

• Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid after cooking.

• Is this dish spicy?

The heat level depends on the taco seasoning you use. If you want less spice, choose a mild taco seasoning or reduce the amount added to the crockpot.

• Do I need to pre-cook the spaghetti?

No, the uncooked spaghetti will cook directly in the crockpot with the sauce and liquid. Break the pasta into smaller pieces so it fits and cooks evenly.

• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before finishing the recipe in the crockpot.

Crockpot Taco Spaghetti Recipe

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4.8 from 34 reviews

• Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty Crockpot Taco Spaghetti delivers a mouthwatering Mexican-inspired pasta fusion that combines zesty taco seasonings with comforting spaghetti noodles. Slow-cooked to perfection, this one-pot wonder brings spicy protein, melted cheese, and bold flavors right to your dinner table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef

Seasoning and Sauce:

• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 can (10 ounces / 283 grams) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 can (8 ounces / 226 grams) tomato sauce
• 2 cups (473 milliliters) beef broth

Base and Vegetables:

• 1 small onion, diced
• 8 ounces (227 grams) spaghetti, broken in half

Cheese and Optional Toppings:

• 1 cup (113 grams) shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream (optional)
• Diced avocado (optional)
• Cilantro (optional)
• Jalapenos (optional)

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Instructions

1. Brown ground beef and onions in a skillet over medium-high heat until meat is fully cooked, approximately 7-8 minutes, then drain excess fat.
2. Transfer seasoned meat mixture into slow cooker, creating a base layer for the dish.
3. Pour in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth, mixing thoroughly to distribute flavors evenly.
4. Set crockpot to low temperature and allow mixture to simmer for 3-4 hours, developing rich, robust flavors.
5. Gently break spaghetti into smaller segments and submerge completely in the liquid, ensuring even cooking and absorption.
6. Continue cooking for an additional 45-60 minutes, or until pasta reaches desired tenderness, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and let it melt completely, creating a creamy, decadent texture.
8. Garnish with optional toppings like fresh cilantro, diced avocado, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños for added complexity and freshness.

Notes

• Drain meat thoroughly to prevent a greasy dish and enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Break spaghetti into smaller segments before adding to ensure even cooking and easier serving in the crockpot.
• Consider using lean ground beef or ground turkey for a healthier protein option without compromising taste.
• Adjust liquid amounts if using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, as these types might absorb moisture differently.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 hours
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Mexican-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 454 kcal
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 780 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg