CrockPot Taco Spaghetti is a fun twist on your usual pasta night! With ground beef, taco seasoning, and spaghetti all cooked together, it’s a hearty dish that’s bursting with flavor.
The best part? It practically makes itself! Just toss everything in the CrockPot and let it simmer. Perfect for those busy days when you want a tasty meal without much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef (or Turkey): Ground beef is classic for this dish, but turkey is a leaner option. You could also use ground chicken or plant-based crumbles if looking for a meat-free meal.
Taco Seasoning: The seasoning packet adds great flavor, but if you prefer homemade, mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika for a personal touch. Adjust it to your taste!
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: This adds a nice kick to the sauce. If you want less spice, use plain diced tomatoes or add a different chili sauce to control the heat.
Beef Broth: For a richer flavor, stick with beef broth. However, vegetable broth or water works too if you’re looking to reduce sodium or cater to vegetarian diets.
Spaghetti: Regular spaghetti is great, but you can also try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. Just check the cooking times, as they may differ.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar complements this dish nicely, but feel free to swap in Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for variety.
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Spaghetti in the CrockPot?
Cooking spaghetti in a CrockPot can be tricky, but it’s simple if you follow these tips. The key is to let the sauce do its magic while the pasta cooks gently.
- Always add the uncooked spaghetti on top of the meat sauce without stirring. This helps it cook evenly.
- Make sure the spaghetti is fully submerged in the sauce to avoid any sticking or burning. Add a little extra broth if needed.
- Check the spaghetti’s tenderness as it approaches the end of the cooking time. It should be soft yet still have a bit of bite!
Remember to sprinkle the cheese on shortly before the end, letting it melt beautifully. Enjoy your hassle-free cooking!
How to Make CrockPot Taco Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- 8 ounces spaghetti, uncooked
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This CrockPot Taco Spaghetti will take about 10-15 minutes to prep and then cooks for either 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Perfect for a hands-off dinner that fits right into your busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Meat:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet and cook until it’s fully browned—about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat once it’s cooked.
2. Season the Meaty Mixture:
Once the meat is browned and drained, sprinkle the taco seasoning all over the meat. Then, add in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir everything together well, letting those flavors mingle!
3. Transfer to the CrockPot:
Carefully pour the tasty meat mixture into your CrockPot. This is where the magic happens!
4. Add the Spaghetti:
Now, take the uncooked spaghetti and lay it on top of the meat mixture. Do not stir it! Just make sure the spaghetti is submerged in the sauce, as it will soak up all those wonderful flavors while cooking.
5. Set to Cook:
Cover the CrockPot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Just keep an eye on it until the spaghetti is nice and tender.
6. Add the Cheese:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the spaghetti. Cover again and let the cheese melt beautifully.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
When everything is cooked and smelling great, serve the Taco Spaghetti hot in bowls. Garnish each dish with fresh chopped cilantro and adjust the seasoning with a little salt and pepper if you’d like. Dive in and enjoy your delicious, hassle-free meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef in this recipe. Just be sure to brown it well and drain any excess fat for the best flavor. The taco seasoning will still bring plenty of delicious flavor, so you won’t miss the beef!
What If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No problem! You can easily substitute beef broth with water or chicken broth. The dish will still taste great, just keep in mind that using broth adds extra flavor. If you opt for water, consider adding a pinch of salt for added taste.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove. You may want to add a splash of water or broth when reheating to keep it nice and moist!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in some diced bell peppers, corn, or black beans along with the meat mixture for added nutrition and flavor. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly if you add a larger quantity of vegetables – they should be tender but still retain some bite!
