CrockPot Taco Spaghetti is the perfect combination of comfort food and bold flavors. With tender spaghetti noodles cooked in a savory taco-inspired sauce, this dish is a fun twist on traditional spaghetti. Loaded with ground beef, beans, corn, and tomatoes, it’s a hearty, family-friendly meal that comes together effortlessly in your slow cooker.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This CrockPot Taco Spaghetti is a one-pot wonder that combines all the delicious flavors of a taco in a pasta dish. It’s a crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to prepare and requires minimal effort. The ground beef is seasoned with taco seasoning, creating a savory, zesty base that’s complemented by the creaminess of the tomato sauce and the heartiness of black beans and corn. The spaghetti noodles absorb all the flavors while cooking, making every bite as delicious as the last. With shredded cheese and fresh cilantro on top, this dish is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 can corn, drained
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can tomato sauce
2 cups beef broth
8 oz spaghetti noodles, broken in half
Shredded cheese, for topping
Chopped fresh cilantro, for topping

Variations

Use Ground Turkey: For a lighter version, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
Add Jalapeños: If you like a bit more spice, add diced jalapeños to the mix for extra heat.
Vegetarian Version: Omit the ground beef and replace it with extra beans, such as pinto beans or kidney beans, for a vegetarian-friendly dish.
Use Gluten-Free Pasta: For a gluten-free version, substitute regular spaghetti with gluten-free pasta.
Taco Bell-inspired: Add a packet of ranch seasoning to the beef mixture for a Taco Bell-inspired flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat to ensure the dish isn’t greasy.

Step 2: Prepare the Taco Mixture

Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, corn, black beans, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix well and bring the mixture to a simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 3: Assemble in the CrockPot

Place the broken spaghetti noodles at the bottom of the crockpot. Pour the beef mixture over the noodles and stir to combine, ensuring the noodles are coated with the sauce.

Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the noodles are tender and have absorbed all the delicious flavors from the sauce.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the spaghetti is cooked, serve it hot, topped with shredded cheese and chopped fresh cilantro for added flavor and color.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Break the Noodles in Half: Breaking the spaghetti noodles in half helps them fit better in the crockpot and ensures they cook evenly.
Add More Broth if Needed: If the sauce thickens too much during cooking, you can add a little more beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Don’t Overcrowd the Crockpot: Make sure your crockpot is large enough to fit all the ingredients without overcrowding to allow the noodles to cook evenly.
Check the Noodles: Different crockpots can vary in temperature, so check the noodles at the 3-hour mark to ensure they’re tender and fully cooked.
Top with Your Favorite Taco Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite taco toppings like sour cream, diced avocado, or hot sauce for extra flavor.

How to Serve

This CrockPot Taco Spaghetti is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side of Mexican rice, tortilla chips, or a simple side salad. It’s perfect for casual dinners, potlucks, or family gatherings. Top each serving with shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, and any other taco toppings you love!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of beef broth or water to restore some moisture.

Freezing

You can freeze the leftover CrockPot Taco Spaghetti for up to 1 month. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers by adding a bit of broth or water to keep the spaghetti from drying out. Heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can use other short pasta shapes like penne or rotini if you don’t have spaghetti. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even ground pork for a different flavor.

3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace the ground beef with additional beans like pinto beans, kidney beans, or extra corn for a meat-free version.

4. Can I use homemade taco seasoning?

Absolutely! You can use your own homemade taco seasoning blend if you prefer to avoid pre-packaged seasoning.

5. Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

Yes, you can add jalapeños or increase the amount of taco seasoning, or add some hot sauce to make it spicier.

6. Can I cook this on high heat instead of low?

Yes, you can cook this on high for 1.5 to 2 hours, but keep an eye on the noodles to ensure they don’t overcook.

7. Can I add cheese directly into the CrockPot?

While you can mix cheese into the CrockPot, it’s best to sprinkle it on top just before serving so it melts nicely.

8. Can I use a different type of broth?

Yes, you can substitute beef broth with chicken broth or vegetable broth if you prefer a different flavor profile.

9. How can I make this dish less soupy?

If you find that the dish is too liquidy, you can remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.

10. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe if you need to serve more people. Just ensure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients.

Conclusion

CrockPot Taco Spaghetti is a flavorful, hassle-free meal that’s perfect for busy days when you want something hearty and satisfying. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or looking for a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe offers a fun twist on both spaghetti and tacos. Top it with cheese and cilantro, and enjoy a delicious meal that brings the best of both worlds together!