Crockpot Taco Spaghetti Recipe

There's nothing quite like the blend of Tex-Mex flavors combined with the comfort of pasta. Crockpot Taco Spaghetti is the perfect weeknight dinner, combining zesty taco seasoning, tender spaghetti, and a creamy, cheesy finish. It’s a dish the whole family will rave about.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe when searching for a way to merge my love for tacos and pasta in a single meal. After just one bite, it became a regular in our meal rotation – it's easy to prepare, requires minimal cleanup, and tastes like a fiesta in a bowl!

Why You'll Love This Crockpot Taco Spaghetti

Get ready to embrace a new family favorite! Crockpot Taco Spaghetti is everything you love about tacos and pasta rolled into one hearty, satisfying dish.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to make. This recipe is a true “dump-and-go” meal – simply toss the ingredients into your slow cooker, let it work its magic, and enjoy a delicious dinner with minimal effort.

It’s also a great option for busy weeknights. With just a few minutes of prep, you can focus on other tasks while the crockpot takes care of the cooking. Perfect for those days when life feels extra hectic!

Budget-friendly ingredients make this recipe a win for your wallet. Ground beef, taco seasoning, spaghetti, and cheese are all affordable staples that come together beautifully.

Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're feeding picky kids or hosting friends, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. The creamy, cheesy finish paired with bold taco spices is irresistible.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Crockpot Taco Spaghetti lies in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Here's what you'll need to make it:

• Ground beef: This forms the hearty base of the dish. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken if preferred.
• Taco seasoning: Use a store-bought packet or make your own for a personalized flavor. This seasoning gives the dish its signature taco flair.
• Diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel): These add a zesty kick and some extra moisture to the sauce.
• Chicken or beef broth: Helps cook the spaghetti to tender perfection and adds a depth of flavor to the sauce.
• Uncooked spaghetti: Break it into halves or thirds to ensure it fits easily in the crockpot and cooks evenly.
• Cheddar cheese: A generous amount of shredded cheese creates the creamy, melty goodness that brings everything together.
• Cream cheese: Adds a rich, velvety texture to the sauce. For a tangier twist, you can substitute with sour cream.

Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for an extra pop of flavor.

Equipment Tip: A 6-quart slow cooker is ideal for this recipe, ensuring there's enough space for the pasta to expand and cook evenly.

How to Make Crockpot Taco Spaghetti

Creating this flavorful dish is as easy as it gets. Here’s how to bring it together step by step:

1. Brown the ground beef. Start by cooking the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain any excess grease, then stir in the taco seasoning to coat the meat.
2. Layer the ingredients in the crockpot. In your slow cooker, combine the cooked beef, diced tomatoes and green chilies, and broth. Stir to mix the flavors together.
3. Add the pasta. Break the spaghetti into halves or thirds and nestle it into the liquid. Make sure the pasta is fully submerged to ensure even cooking.
4. Cook on low. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from clumping.
5. Add the cheese. Once the pasta is tender, stir in the cheddar cheese and cream cheese until melted and creamy. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes to thicken slightly.
6. Serve and enjoy. Spoon the taco spaghetti into bowls, garnish with your favorite toppings, and dig in!

Storage Options

Crockpot Taco Spaghetti stores wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

• Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.
• Freezer: For longer storage, transfer the cooled spaghetti to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Meal prep tip: Divide the spaghetti into individual portions before storing. This makes reheating quick and convenient for lunches or single servings.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some ways to make it your own:

• Vegetarian version: Skip the ground beef and add black beans, pinto beans, or a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian-friendly meal.
• Spicy kick: Love heat? Use spicy taco seasoning, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, or diced jalapeños to turn up the spice.
• Different pasta shapes: While spaghetti works beautifully, you can also use other long pasta like linguine or fettuccine, or even short shapes like penne or rotini.
• Cheese alternatives: Swap the cheddar for a Mexican blend, pepper jack, or Monterey jack for different flavor profiles.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free spaghetti and ensure your taco seasoning is gluten-free for an allergy-friendly option.

Feel free to experiment with toppings and sides too! A simple side salad or some warm tortilla chips makes the perfect accompaniment.

Crockpot Taco Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food mashup, delivering bold flavors with minimal effort. Whether you're feeding a hungry crowd or looking for an easy meal that practically cooks itself, this recipe is sure to impress. Gather your ingredients and get ready to fall in love with this delicious dish!

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