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.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Instructions
- 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.
- Transfer seasoned meat mixture into slow cooker, creating a base layer for the dish.
- Pour in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth, mixing thoroughly to distribute flavors evenly.
- Set crockpot to low temperature and allow mixture to simmer for 3-4 hours, developing rich, robust flavors.
- Gently break spaghetti into smaller segments and submerge completely in the liquid, ensuring even cooking and absorption.
- Continue cooking for an additional 45-60 minutes, or until pasta reaches desired tenderness, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and let it melt completely, creating a creamy, decadent texture.
- 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