Cooking method
Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of water and cooking the spaghetti according to package directions. Once done, drain it and set it aside.
Sauté & Brown: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm up the olive oil. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft. Toss in the ground beef and cook until it’s thoroughly browned. Don’t forget to drain off any excess fat to keep it from becoming too greasy!
Make it Saucy: Return the mixture into the skillet. Mix in the taco seasoning, undrained tomatoes with green chilis, beef broth, sour cream, and shredded cheese. Stir well, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer while stirring occasionally until it’s creamy and the cheese has melted to heavenly perfection.
Mix with Spaghetti: Add your cooked spaghetti right into the skillet, tossing it well so that every noodle gets drenched in that savory taco sauce.
Serve: Serve it hot! You can garnish your bowl with fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of more cheese for extra flavor. Dig in and enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
Creamy Cheesy Taco-Spaghetti is fantastic on its own, but you can elevate it further. Serve it with a side of crunchy tortilla chips for that authentic Mexican vibe or a fresh green salad to balance the richness. If you want to spice things up, add jalapeño slices or a dollop of guacamole on top.
Keeping leftovers fresh
For any leftovers, let the dish cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or a little water in the skillet to keep it moist. If you want to save it for later, this dish also freezes well for up to three months. Just ensure to divide it into meal-sized portions before freezing.
Helpful cooking tips
- Be sure not to overcook the spaghetti; you want it to have a little bite (al dente). It will continue to cook slightly when you mix it with the sauce.
- For a healthier twist, consider mixing in some cooked vegetables like spinach or diced zucchini before serving.
- Always taste and adjust seasonings based on your preferences. Don’t hesitate to add an extra sprinkle of cheese for more creaminess!
Creative twists
Looking to mix things up? Here are some variations you can try:
- Swap out the ground beef for shredded chicken or a meat alternative for a lighter dish.
- Use chipotle seasoning instead of taco seasoning for an added depth of smokiness.
- Increase the spice factor with some diced jalapeños mixed into the sauce or serve with a side of hot salsa.
FAQs
How long does this recipe take to prepare?
This Creamy Cheesy Taco-Spaghetti typically takes about 30-40 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef for black beans or lentils, and you can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
How do I store leftovers properly?
Make sure the dish is completely cooled before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate and consume within three days or freeze for up to three months for the best quality. Reheat gently over medium heat.
With its creamy texture and fun taco flavor, this Creamy Cheesy Taco-Spaghetti recipe is bound to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s a simple, comforting dinner option that brings everyone together, making it a must-try for any home cook! Enjoy your culinary adventure!
