Imagine the bold, zesty flavors of Mexican cuisine mingling with the comforting heartiness of Italian pasta—this cheesy taco spaghetti bake makes it happen. It’s the perfect weeknight meal for busy families, bringing together seasoned beef, tender spaghetti, tangy tomatoes, and melty cheese in one easy casserole. Cooked in a single pot before finishing in the oven, this dish saves time and cleanup while delivering maximum flavor. Top it with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream, and you’ve got a dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds.
YIELD
6–8 servings
PREP TIME
35 Min
COOK TIME
10 Min
METHOD
Bake
Ingredients for Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Bake
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2 lb (900 g) ground beef
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2 packets taco seasoning
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2 cans Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, 10 oz each (280 g each)
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1 can tomato paste, 6 oz (170 g)
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1 lb (450 g) spaghetti
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6 cups (1.4 liters) water
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2 cups (200 g) shredded Mexican cheese blend
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Sour cream, optional
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Fresh cilantro, optional
How to Make Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Bake
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In a large Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat and return the meat to the pot.
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Stir in the taco seasoning until the beef is fully coated.
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Add the Rotel tomatoes, tomato paste, and uncooked spaghetti.
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Pour in the water, ensuring the pasta is mostly submerged.
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Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the water is absorbed.
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the spaghetti mixture to a greased 13 x 9-inch (33 x 23 cm) casserole dish.
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Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 10 minutes.
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For a stovetop-only method, add the cheese after step 5, cover, and cook until melted. However, baking adds a golden, slightly crispy cheese layer that’s hard to resist. Serve hot, garnished with sour cream and cilantro if desired.
Conclusion:
This cheesy taco spaghetti bake is the ultimate family comfort food—rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. The pasta absorbs every bit of taco-seasoned goodness, while the melted cheese adds a gooey, irresistible finish. Whether you bake it for a bubbly, golden crust or keep it all on the stovetop for speed, this fusion dish is sure to become a regular on your dinner table.
