Description

Crockpot Taco Spaghetti is an inventive fusion of two beloved comfort foods: spaghetti and tacos. This slow-cooker recipe blends ground beef, taco seasoning, spaghetti, and cheese, offering the best of both Italian and Mexican cuisines. The dish is prepared by browning the meat and combining it with salsa, tomatoes, and broth in the crockpot, where it slowly cooks to perfection. Towards the end, spaghetti is added, allowing it to absorb all the rich, taco-infused flavors. Cheese is layered in just before serving, creating a creamy and melty finish.

Ingredients

Scale

1 tablespoon olive oil
1½ pounds ground beef
¾ cups diced yellow onion
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 ounce packet of taco seasoning
20 ounces (2 10-ounce cans) Rotel Original diced tomatoes with green chilis
3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, divided into 2 tablespoons and 1 tablespoon
1 pound dried spaghetti noodles, broken in half to fit inside the crockpot
2 cups beef broth
3 cups water
8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions

Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil, ground beef, diced yellow onion, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and onions are translucent, about 5-6 minutes. Drain off excess fat.

Combine in Crockpot: Transfer the cooked beef mixture to a 6-quart crockpot. Add taco seasoning, Rotel diced tomatoes, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, broken spaghetti noodles, beef broth, and water. Stir well to ensure the spaghetti is submerged in the liquid.

Cook: Cover the crockpot and set to HIGH for 2 hours (or LOW for 3½-4 hours). Check at 1½ hours to prevent overcooking the pasta.

Finish and Serve: Once cooked, turn off the crockpot, stir the spaghetti to mix evenly. Add shredded cheddar cheese and the remaining tablespoon of chopped cilantro. Serve directly from the crockpot and enjoy.

Notes

Customization Options: This recipe is highly versatile. You can swap ground beef for turkey or a plant-based option, and adjust the spice level by using mild or spicy salsa and taco seasoning.
Serving Size: The recipe typically serves 4-8, making it a great option for family meals or gatherings.
Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 2 months, making it convenient for meal prep.
Dietary Adjustments: For a vegetarian twist, replace the meat with black beans or lentils