Cheesy Taco Spaghetti

Ingredients:

8 oz spaghetti noodles

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/2 cup diced onions

2 teaspoons minced garlic

1 lb. ground beef

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

10 oz Rotel tomatoes, undrained

1/2 cup Original Taco sauce (can add more if desired)

TACO SEASONINGS:

1 ½- 2 teaspoons chili powder

½- 1 teaspoon cumin

1/2 teaspoon oregano

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon onion powder

¼-½ teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1 ½-2 cups Mexican cheese blend, shredded, (divided) Can add more if desired
cilantro & green onions, chopped garnish

Toppings:

fresh tomatoes, sour cream, black olives, etc.

Instructions:

Cook spaghetti in salted water, according to the package until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large deep skillet, heat olive oil.

Add onions and cook until tender.

Add garlic and cook until fragrant.

Add ground beef to pan, using a spatula to break it up into small pieces.

Sprinkle the beef with salt, pepper and garlic powder.

Cook beef until done and then drain.

Add in Rotel, taco sauce and cooked spaghetti, tossing to coat.

Reduce the heat to medium-low (to keep warm).

Mix together taco seasonings and sprinkle over the pasta.

Toss to coat. Stir in 1 cup of cheese.

Taste and adjust spices. (Add more cheese if desired).

Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and place a lid over the pot to allow the cheese to melt.

Sprinkle the top with fresh cilantro and chopped green onions.

Plate and top with your favorite taco toppings.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Yes, you can substitute spaghetti noodles with other pasta shapes such as penne, fusilli, or macaroni based on your preference.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef in this recipe.

Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your taste preferences.

The taco seasonings and Original Taco sauce provide a mild to medium level of spiciness.

Feel free to add more or less spice according to your preference.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, you can adapt the recipe to be vegetarian or vegan.

Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat alternatives, and use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for the cheesy component.

Ensure that the taco sauce and other ingredients are also vegan-friendly.

How can I store and reheat leftovers?

Store any leftover Cheesy Taco Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

To reheat, you can use the microwave or stovetop, adding a little water or broth to prevent the pasta from drying out.

Stir occasionally until heated through.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can customize the cheese blend based on your preference.

Feel free to use a different type of shredded cheese or a combination of cheeses such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Colby Jack.
Can I make this recipe spicy?

Absolutely! If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add additional chili powder, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the taco seasonings.

Adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
Are there any vegetarian alternatives for the ground beef?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with vegetarian alternatives like plant-based ground meat or crumbles.

Ensure they are seasoned well to mimic the flavors of traditional taco meat.

What are some suggested toppings for this dish?

You can top your Cheesy Taco Spaghetti with various toppings such as diced fresh tomatoes, sour cream, sliced black olives, chopped avocado, or sliced jalapeños.

Get creative and use your favorite taco toppings!
Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking.

Simply follow the recipe until step 12, cover the dish, and refrigerate.

When ready to serve, allow it to come to room temperature, then bake as directed.