Let’s be honest: we all need more quick, delicious, and family-approved dinner recipes in our lives. If you’re nodding along, you’re in the right place. My Crockpot Taco Spaghetti is the ultimate weeknight hero—combining the cozy, comforting vibes of spaghetti with the zesty, bold flavors of a classic taco night. Plus, it’s made in a crockpot! Translation: minimal effort, maximum flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this dish has your back.
Let’s dive into why this recipe will become your new favorite, and then we’ll get to the good stuff—cooking it up!
Why Crockpot Taco Spaghetti is a Must-Try
What makes this recipe stand out? It’s like two comfort foods got together and created something magical. Imagine tender spaghetti soaking up all the juicy, spicy taco flavors, melty cheese tying everything together, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for that final zing. Yum, right?
This dish is also:
- A Time Saver: Just throw everything into your trusty crockpot, and let it do the work while you tackle your to-do list.
- Family-Friendly: Picky eaters? No problem. The familiar flavors of tacos and pasta will win everyone over.
- Customizable: Make it as spicy, cheesy, or veggie-packed as you want.
Ready to get cooking? Let’s go step by step so you can make this with confidence.
Step 1: Brown the Beef
It all starts with flavor. Grab your skillet and heat it over medium. Add 1 pound of ground beef, 1 chopped onion, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook everything together until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Pro tip: stir occasionally to make sure everything cooks evenly. Once the beef is beautifully browned, drain any excess grease—no one wants a greasy spaghetti dish, right?
Why this step matters: Browning the beef first locks in flavor, and the onions and garlic add a savory depth that takes this dish from good to irresistible.
Step 2: Let the Crockpot Do Its Magic
Now comes the easy part. Transfer your browned beef mixture to a 6-quart crockpot. Add in one packet of taco seasoning, a can of diced tomatoes (undrained), a can of Ro*Tel diced tomatoes and green chilies (undrained), and 4 cups of chicken broth. Give it all a good stir to combine.
Here’s where the magic happens: breaking spaghetti into thirds, you’ll nestle it right into that flavorful mixture. Make sure the pasta is submerged so it can cook evenly. Cover the crockpot and let it work its slow-cooking magic.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Trick
The beauty of using a crockpot here is that the pasta absorbs all those amazing taco flavors while it cooks. The result? Spaghetti that’s packed with flavor in every single bite. Plus, you don’t have to keep an eye on the stove. Just give it an occasional stir to prevent sticking, and let the crockpot take care of the rest.
Finishing Your Crockpot Taco Spaghetti
By now, your kitchen is probably smelling like a dream—a mix of spicy taco seasoning and savory goodness wafting from your crockpot. If you thought the hard part was over, you’re absolutely right! All that’s left to do is put on those final touches that take this dish from delicious to downright unforgettable.
Let’s dive back in and finish making your new favorite meal.
Step 3: Cooking the Pasta to Perfection
At this stage, the crockpot is working its magic on the spaghetti. Set your timer for 2-3 hours on high, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from clumping together. You’ll know it’s done when the spaghetti is tender and has soaked up all those bold, saucy flavors. Pro tip: Resist the urge to overcook, as you want your pasta to have just the right bite—not mushy.
A Little Stirring Goes a Long Way While the crockpot is great for hands-free cooking, a gentle stir every 30 minutes or so ensures even cooking and prevents the spaghetti from sticking. Trust me, this tiny effort makes a huge difference.
Step 4: Time for the Cheesy Goodness
Once the pasta is perfectly cooked, it’s time for everyone’s favorite part—cheese! Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and watch it melt into creamy, gooey perfection. This step not only adds a rich, cheesy flavor but also brings everything together for that signature comfort-food vibe.
Tip: If you’re feeling adventurous, mix in some pepper jack or mozzarella cheese for extra creaminess or a spicy kick.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Now comes the fun part—garnishing and serving your masterpiece. Dish out your taco spaghetti while it’s still hot and top with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness. Optional garnishes like a dollop of sour cream and creamy avocado slices elevate the dish even more, adding a cool, contrasting texture to the warm, cheesy pasta.
If you’re serving this to guests (or just want to impress your family), plate it in shallow bowls, sprinkle on a little extra cheese, and add those garnishes for a restaurant-quality presentation.
Pro Tips and Variations
Make It Your Own This recipe is super customizable, so feel free to get creative:
- Add veggies: Stir in black beans, corn, or diced bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
- Switch up the protein: Not a fan of beef? Swap it out for ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled plant-based meat for a vegetarian option.
- Boost the spice: Love it hot? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce to the mix.
- Go gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free spaghetti or pasta alternative to make this dish allergy-friendly.
How to Double the Recipe Feeding a crowd? You can easily double the recipe, but make sure your crockpot is large enough to handle the extra volume. You’ll also want to add a little extra cooking time, checking periodically to ensure the pasta cooks evenly.
Serving Suggestions
This Crockpot Taco Spaghetti is a meal all on its own, but it pairs beautifully with some simple sides. Here are a few ideas:
- Fresh salad: A crisp, green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the pasta.
- Garlic bread: Who doesn’t love a side of buttery, garlicky bread to scoop up every last bit of sauce?
- Mexican-style toppings: Set up a mini topping bar with jalapeños, pico de gallo, shredded lettuce, or crumbled tortilla chips for extra crunch.
FAQ Section: Your Crockpot Taco Spaghetti Questions Answered
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prep the beef mixture the day before and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The next day, simply add it to your crockpot along with the other ingredients, and let it cook. This is a great time-saver for busy weekdays.
2. How do I store leftovers? Let your taco spaghetti cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners.
3. Can I freeze Crockpot Taco Spaghetti? Yes, this dish freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
4. What’s the best way to reheat this dish? For small portions, the microwave works great—just add a splash of water or chicken broth to keep the pasta moist. For larger portions, reheat in a skillet on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
5. Can I use a different type of pasta? Sure! While spaghetti works best for soaking up the flavors, you can substitute other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or fettuccine. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
6. Is there a way to make this dish spicier? If you love heat, you can add chopped jalapeños, extra Ro*Tel, or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. You could also use spicy taco seasoning instead of regular.
7. What toppings go well with this dish? In addition to sour cream and avocado, try crushed tortilla chips, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or sliced olives. These toppings add texture and extra layers of flavor.
Conclusion: Your New Favorite Crockpot Recipe
Congratulations—you’ve just mastered a meal that checks all the boxes: easy, delicious, and guaranteed to please the whole family. Crockpot Taco Spaghetti is more than just a dinner; it’s a way to bring bold, comforting flavors to your table with minimal effort. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weeknight meal, a casual gathering, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe never disappoints.
But don’t stop here! Feel free to make it your own by experimenting with different ingredients, proteins, or toppings. Cooking is all about creativity, and this dish is the perfect canvas for your culinary imagination.
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Crockpot Taco Spaghetti
- Total Time: 3 hours
Description
This Crockpot Taco Spaghetti combines the bold flavors of tacos with comforting pasta in one simple slow-cooked dish. Perfect for busy nights, it’s a family-friendly dinner loaded with savory beef, creamy cheese, and a zesty kick.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (10 oz) Ro*Tel diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz spaghetti, uncooked
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnishes: Sour cream and avocado slices
Instructions
1️⃣ Brown the beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Drain excess grease.
2️⃣ Transfer to the crockpot: Add the beef mixture to a 6-quart crockpot. Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, Ro*Tel, and chicken broth.
3️⃣ Add the pasta: Break the spaghetti into thirds and add it to the crockpot, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid.
4️⃣ Cook: Cover and cook on high for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent the spaghetti from sticking together. Cook until the pasta is tender.
5️⃣ Add the cheese: Once the spaghetti is cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
6️⃣ Serve: Dish out the taco spaghetti hot and garnish with fresh cilantro. Add optional toppings like sour cream and avocado slices for extra flavor.
Notes
- Spice level: For a milder version, use mild Ro*Tel. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne or some diced jalapeños.
- Cheese options: Swap cheddar for a Mexican cheese blend for added flavor.
- Make it creamy: Stir in ½ cup of cream cheese or sour cream at the end for a creamier texture.
- Vegetarian option: Replace ground beef with black beans or a meat substitute and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-3 hours (on high)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-6
