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Taco Spaghetti

A quick, one-pot fusion of seasoned ground beef, spaghetti, and classic taco flavors that comes together in under 30 minutes for an easy weeknight meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 28 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Tex-Mex Fusion
Calories: 485

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 pound ground beef 80/20 blend
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 8 ounces spaghetti broken in half
  • 1 can 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes, with juices
  • 1 can 8 ounces tomato sauce
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Fresh cilantro chopped (optional, for garnish)

Equipment

  • large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • colander
  • Sharp knife and cutting board

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat for 1 minute.
  2. Add ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart, until browned and no pink remains.
  3. Stir in diced onion and cook 2–3 minutes until translucent; add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne over the meat; stir constantly for 1 minute to toast spices.
  5. Pour in beef broth, diced tomatoes with juices, and tomato sauce; stir until well combined.
  6. Add broken spaghetti, pushing it under the liquid; season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  7. Bring mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to medium and simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and sauce has thickened.
  8. Remove pot from heat, stir in shredded cheddar until melted, and garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Notes

Adjust cayenne for desired heat. For a creamier version, stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream after pasta is cooked and before adding cheese.