Crockpot Taco Spaghetti – Easy Cheesy Slow Cooker Recipe

Craving a delicious fusion of tacos and spaghetti? This Crockpot Taco Spaghetti recipe delivers bold flavors in a creamy, cheesy dish that’s perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.

Slow-cooked to perfection, this meal combines ground beef, taco seasoning, and spaghetti in a rich sauce, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.

Using a crockpot makes it effortless, allowing the flavors to meld together for an irresistible taste.

Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing for meal prep, this dish is sure to be a hit.

Plus, the versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it with your favorite toppings and add-ins.

If you’re a fan of classic tacos and love spaghetti, this is the ultimate comfort food for you. Keep reading for a step-by-step guide to making this incredible dish.

What Is Crockpot Taco Spaghetti?

Crockpot Taco Spaghetti is a slow-cooked meal that blends the rich, spicy taste of tacos with the hearty appeal of spaghetti.

The crockpot method enhances the flavors, allowing the meat, seasonings, and sauce to develop a deep and savory taste.

Unlike traditional spaghetti, this version incorporates taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, and cheese, creating a Mexican-inspired pasta dish that is both creamy and flavorful.

The spaghetti absorbs the bold flavors while cooking, resulting in a dish that is unique, comforting, and incredibly easy to make.

Ingredients to Make Crockpot Taco Spaghetti

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning mix
• 1 can (10 ounces) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 2 cups beef broth
• 8 ounces spaghetti, broken in half
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• ½ cup sour cream (optional, for creaminess)
• Chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Optional Additions

• ½ cup black beans for extra protein
• ½ cup corn for added sweetness
• 1 diced jalapeño for heat
• ½ cup diced bell peppers for a crunchier texture
• Sliced olives for a briny kick
• A drizzle of hot sauce for spice lovers

Substitutions And Variations

• Ground Turkey Or Chicken: Swap the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Different Pasta: Use rotini, penne, or fettuccine instead of spaghetti for a different texture.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the meat with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
• Extra Cheesy: Add Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for a gooier consistency.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and coconut cream in place of sour cream.

Recipe Instructions for Crockpot Taco Spaghetti

Step 1: Brown The Beef
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Add The Seasonings And Sauce
Transfer the browned beef to the crockpot. Stir in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Add The Spaghetti
Break the spaghetti in half and stir it into the crockpot. Push it down so that it is fully submerged in the sauce. Cover and cook for an additional 30-40 minutes until the pasta is tender.

Step 5: Add The Cheese
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese. Mix well until fully melted and incorporated.

Step 6: Serve And Garnish
Once everything is well combined, serve the taco spaghetti hot. Top with sour cream, fresh cilantro, or your favorite taco toppings.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• Not Draining The Beef: Removing excess grease prevents the dish from being too oily.
• Overcooking The Pasta: Adding the spaghetti too early can lead to mushy noodles. Always add it in the last 30-40 minutes of cooking.
• Skipping The Stirring: Stirring ensures the pasta cooks evenly and absorbs the flavorful sauce.
• Not Using Enough Liquid: If the mixture looks dry, add a bit more beef broth to ensure the spaghetti cooks properly.

Serving And Presentation Tips

• Serve in individual bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese.
• Pair with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.

Expert Tips

• Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.
• Double the recipe and store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
• For a smoky flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika or chipotle powder.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, penne, rotini, or fettuccine all work well with this recipe.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, add the pasta and cook it in the crockpot.

Can I freeze crockpot taco spaghetti?
Yes, allow the dish to cool completely before storing it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or tortilla chips for added crunch.

Conclusion

Crockpot Taco Spaghetti is the perfect fusion of two comfort food favorites, bringing the bold flavors of tacos to a creamy pasta dish.

It’s an effortless meal that slow cooks to perfection, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

With customizable ingredients and simple steps, this dish is easy to adapt to any taste preference.

Whether topped with fresh cilantro, extra cheese, or a dollop of sour cream, every bite is packed with rich, savory goodness.

Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal that the whole family will love.