Spaghetti Tacos: The Ultimate Spaghetti Taco Recipe
Introduction to Spaghetti Tacos
Are you looking for a fun and delicious way to mix up dinner? Look no further than spaghetti tacos! This innovative dish combines two beloved favorites—spaghetti and tacos—into one messy, mouthwatering meal. Perfect for family dinner nights or when you want to impress your guests with something unique, spaghetti tacos are sure to be a hit!
A Personal Story Behind My Spaghetti Tacos Journey
Growing up, my family often made spaghetti for dinner, and tacos were a staple on Taco Tuesdays. One day, I decided to combine the two, and it turned out to be a game-changer! I’ll never forget the look on my family’s faces when they took their first bite. It was a joyful mess that brought laughter and smiles around the dinner table. Now, I love sharing this recipe with others so they can experience the same delight!
What Makes This Spaghetti Tacos Recipe Special?
This spaghetti tacos recipe stands out because it’s not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize your tacos with your favorite toppings—think salsa, shredded cheese, and fresh lettuce. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up leftover spaghetti sauce or ground meat. The combination of flavors will surprise you, and the best part? It’s a meal that everyone can enjoy, regardless of age!
The Full Spaghetti Tacos Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning (1 1/4 ounces)
- 1 cup water
- 1 jar spaghetti sauce (26 ounces)
- 1 box spaghetti noodles (8 ounces)
- 12 hard taco shells
- Salsa (optional)
- Cheddar cheese (optional)
- Lettuce (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking together. Once cooked, drain the noodles and return them to the pot.
- In a large pan over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until it is no longer pink. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to break it up into small pieces as it cooks for even browning.
- Add the taco seasoning and water to the pan with the meat. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5-6 minutes. This will allow the sauce to thicken nicely.
- Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the spaghetti sauce and cook until everything is warmed through, about 2-3 minutes.
- Mix the meat and sauce thoroughly with the cooked spaghetti noodles in the pot. This is where the magic happens—make sure every noodle is coated!
- To assemble the tacos, spoon a generous amount of salsa into each taco shell. This adds a great flavor and moisture to the tacos.
- Sprinkle a small amount of cheddar cheese on top of the salsa in each shell. Feel free to add as much cheese as you like!
- Fill each taco shell with the spaghetti mixture, ensuring you pack it in well for a hearty bite.
- Top with fresh lettuce if desired, then serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious spaghetti tacos!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Spaghetti Tacos
These spaghetti tacos are incredibly versatile! You can serve them with a side of tortilla chips and guacamole for added crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding jalapeños for a spicy kick or black olives for a salty twist. You can also swap out the cheddar cheese for pepper jack for an extra layer of flavor. For a healthier version, consider using whole wheat spaghetti noodles and lean ground turkey.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spaghetti Tacos
Can I make spaghetti tacos ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the spaghetti mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before assembling your tacos.
What if I don’t have taco seasoning?
You can make your own taco seasoning by combining chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
Can I freeze spaghetti tacos?
It’s best to freeze the spaghetti mixture separately from the taco shells. This way, you can enjoy fresh tacos later on!
Are spaghetti tacos kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Kids love the fun combination of flavors and textures. Just be prepared for a bit of mess!
Spaghetti Tacos
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning (1 1/4 ounces)
- 1 cup water
- 1 jar spaghetti sauce (26 ounces)
- 1 box spaghetti noodles (8 ounces)
- 12 hard taco shells
- 1 salsa (optional)
- 1 cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 lettuce (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and return them to the pot.
- In a pan, brown the ground beef or turkey until no longer pink. Add the taco seasoning and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-6 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Add the spaghetti sauce and cook until warmed. Mix this sauce with the cooked noodles thoroughly.
- To assemble the tacos, spoon salsa into each taco shell. Sprinkle a small amount of cheddar cheese on top. Fill the shells with the spaghetti mixture. Add lettuce on top if desired.