CrockPot Taco Spaghetti is a fun twist on dinner! This dish mixes spaghetti, taco meat, and zesty seasonings all cooked together for a cozy meal that’s bursting with flavor.
The best part? You just toss everything into the CrockPot and let it do the work! I like to top mine with cheese and sour cream. Who can resist that cheesy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef/Turkey: I usually opt for ground beef for its rich flavor, but ground turkey is a fantastic lighter alternative. It’s a healthier choice, just make sure to season it well since it can be milder in taste.
Taco Seasoning: A packet of store-bought taco seasoning is super convenient. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own by mixing chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. It’s often more flavorful and allows you to control the spice level.
Spaghetti: Traditional spaghetti works great here, but you can swap it for whole-grain pasta or gluten-free pasta if needed. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as different pastas may require adjustments.
Chicken Broth: For a richer flavor, use beef broth instead of chicken broth. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, vegetable broth is a fantastic substitute, just make sure it complements the other flavors.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness to the dish. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a great alternative, and it still provides a nice color and aroma.
How Can I Ensure the Spaghetti Turns Out Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the spaghetti just right can be tricky! The key is to break it in half before adding it to the CrockPot. This way, it fits nicely on top and absorbs all that yummy flavor from the sauce below. Follow these tips:
- Place the broken spaghetti on top of the sauce and do not stir it in. This helps it absorb the flavors better as it cooks.
- Stir gently halfway through the cooking time. This ensures it cooks evenly without getting mushy.
- Cook until al dente. You want the pasta to be tender but not overcooked—typically 2 hours on high or 4 hours on low.
How to Make CrockPot Taco Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chiles
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sour cream or avocado slices (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes for preparation and 4 hours on low or 2 hours on high in the CrockPot. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it meal that fills your home with delicious aromas while you wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or turkey) until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked. Make sure to drain any excess fat to keep it from being greasy. Then, add your diced onion to the skillet and sauté them together until the onions are soft and translucent.
2. Add Seasoning:
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef and onion mixture. Stir everything together until the beef and onions are well coated with the spices, making sure to get that yummy taco flavor throughout!
3. Mix It Up in the CrockPot:
Transfer the seasoned beef and onion mixture into your CrockPot. Now, add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, chicken broth, and corn (if you’re using it). Give it all a good stir to combine the ingredients nicely.
4. Add the Spaghetti:
Next, take your uncooked spaghetti and break it in half. Lay it on top of the mixture in the CrockPot, but don’t stir it in. This will help the spaghetti absorb all the flavors while it cooks!
5. Cooking Time:
Cover the CrockPot and set it to cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours. Halfway through cooking, remember to stir everything gently to help the noodles cook evenly.
6. Add Cheese:
Once the pasta is tender and everything looks deliciously heated through, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Put the lid back on and let it sit for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When ready, scoop out your taco spaghetti and serve it hot! Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro. For an extra treat, feel free to add sour cream or avocado slices. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef and will work well in this recipe. Just be mindful that turkey may produce less grease, so you might not need to drain as much fat after browning.
What If I Don’t Have Taco Seasoning?
No worries! You can easily make your own taco seasoning by mixing 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust to taste based on your preference!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead of Regular Spaghetti?
Yes, whole wheat spaghetti will work fine! Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it might absorb the broth a bit differently. You may want to check for doneness a few minutes early.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if it seems too thick!
