If you love the bold flavors of tacos and the comforting goodness of spaghetti, CrockPot Taco Spaghetti is the perfect fusion dish for you.
This easy slow-cooker recipe combines tender spaghetti noodles with seasoned ground beef, zesty taco spices, creamy cheese, and a rich tomato-based sauce for a mouthwatering meal the whole family will love.
One of the best things about this dish is its simplicity. With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep time, you can set everything in the CrockPot and let it cook to perfection.
The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a hearty and satisfying meal. Unlike traditional spaghetti, this version has a Tex-Mex kick, thanks to taco seasoning, Rotel tomatoes, and optional toppings like jalapeños, sour cream, or avocado.
CrockPot Taco Spaghetti is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep.
It’s a kid-friendly dish that can be customized to suit different spice levels. Plus, it’s a great way to switch up your usual taco night with something equally delicious but even easier to prepare.
Serve it up with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad, and enjoy a fun twist on two classic favorites!
CrockPot Taco Spaghetti
Description
CrockPot Taco Spaghetti is a delicious fusion of Mexican and Italian flavors, combining hearty ground beef, taco seasoning, and rich tomato sauce with tender spaghetti noodles. Slow-cooked to perfection, this easy one-pot meal is packed with bold spices, melty cheese, and a hint of heat from diced tomatoes with green chilies. The pasta absorbs all the savory goodness, creating a creamy, flavorful dish the whole family will love. Simply toss the ingredients into the slow cooker, let it simmer, and enjoy a hassle-free dinner. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or avocado for extra flavor. Perfect for busy nights!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Brown the Meat:
In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease. Stir in taco seasoning and a splash of water.
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Assemble in CrockPot:
Add the cooked meat, Rotel, tomato sauce, beef broth, diced onion, bell pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin. Stir well.
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Slow Cook:
Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours.
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Add Pasta:
Stir in the broken spaghetti 30–40 minutes before serving, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid. Cook until pasta is tender.
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Cheese Topping:
Sprinkle cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the top. Cover and let melt for 5–10 minutes.
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Serve:
Garnish with chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or sour cream if desired. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 938kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 12g19%
- Total Carbohydrate 67g23%
- Protein 52g104%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
CrockPot Taco Spaghetti: Tips & Serving Tricks
CrockPot Taco Spaghetti is a fusion of classic spaghetti and bold taco flavors, all made conveniently in a slow cooker.
It’s a simple, hearty dish perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep.
Below are some expert tips and serving tricks to take your dish to the next level.
Tips for the Best CrockPot Taco Spaghetti
1. Choose the Right Pasta
- Spaghetti works well, but you can also use fettuccine, linguine, or even penne.
- If using regular spaghetti, break it in half before adding it to prevent clumping.
- Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta may require a slight adjustment in cooking time.
2. Brown the Meat First
- For the best flavor and texture, brown your ground beef (or turkey/chicken) before adding it to the CrockPot.
- Drain excess grease to prevent the sauce from becoming too oily.
3. Layer Ingredients Properly
- Start with a base of diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, and broth or water.
- Add cooked meat and mix well before adding the spaghetti.
- Push the spaghetti into the liquid to ensure even cooking.
4. Use the Right Amount of Liquid
- A good ratio is about 4 cups of liquid (broth, water, or a mix of both) per 8 oz of pasta.
- Adding a bit of tomato sauce or salsa enhances the taco flavor.
- Stir occasionally if your CrockPot allows it, to prevent pasta from sticking.
5. Don’t Overcook the Pasta
- Pasta can get mushy if cooked too long. Add it during the last 20–30 minutes of cooking on LOW.
- If using a programmable slow cooker, cook on LOW for 4–6 hours and add the spaghetti toward the end.
6. Make It Creamy
- Stir in a little cream cheese, sour cream, or heavy cream at the end for a richer texture.
- A handful of shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend can also be added before serving.
7. Spice It Up
- Add chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Use fire-roasted tomatoes instead of regular diced tomatoes for a smoky kick.
Serving Tricks
1. Garnish for Extra Flavor
- Fresh toppings elevate the dish! Consider adding:
- Chopped cilantro
- Diced avocados
- Sliced green onions
- Crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy topping
2. Pair It with Side Dishes
- Serve with a fresh side salad (a simple lettuce, tomato, and avocado mix works great).
- A side of refried beans, Mexican rice, or cornbread complements the dish.
3. Make It a Meal Prep Favorite
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat with a splash of broth or water to revive the texture.
4. Turn It into a Taco Bake
- Transfer leftovers to a casserole dish, top with cheese, and bake at 375°F for 10–15 minutes.
CrockPot Taco Spaghetti is an easy, delicious dish that brings comfort food to a new level. By following these tips and tricks, you’ll create a flavorful meal that everyone will love!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any type of pasta for CrockPot Taco Spaghetti?
Yes, but spaghetti is ideal because it absorbs the sauce well and stays tender without becoming mushy. If you prefer other pasta shapes like penne or rotini, reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent overcooking. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be used, but they may have different textures.
Do I need to cook the ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker?
Yes, it's best to brown the ground beef before adding it to the CrockPot. This enhances the flavor and prevents the dish from becoming greasy. Draining excess fat after browning helps keep the sauce from being too oily. If using lean ground beef (90/10 or higher), you may not need to drain it.
Can I make this dish spicier or milder?
Absolutely! To make it spicier, add extra taco seasoning, chopped jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce. For a milder version, use a mild taco seasoning blend and reduce or omit spicy ingredients like Rotel tomatoes with green chilies. You can also balance spice with a little sour cream or shredded cheese on top.
