Taco Spaghetti Casserole

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Welcome to the delicious world of comforting casseroles! Today, we’re diving into a delightful dish that combines two classic favorites: tacos and spaghetti. This Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Casserole is your go-to recipe for a hearty, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for feeding a large family or a group of friends. It’s budget-friendly, using simple ingredients that won’t break the bank. Plus, it’s kid-approved, making it a great choice for family dinners. The best part? Leftovers taste just as good, if not better!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Skillet pan
• Large pot for boiling pasta
• 9×13 baking dish
• Cooking spray

Ingredients

• 1 box (1 lb) thin spaghetti noodles
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 can (15 oz) chili beans, undrained
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• Chopped tomato & green onion for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Prepare a 9×13 baking dish and spray with cooking spray.
2. In a skillet pan, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until no longer pink. Drain and return to pan.
3. Add the taco seasoning and water to the beef, stir until combined together.
4. Add the undrained chili beans, tomato sauce, and chunked Velveeta cheese. Stir together and let the Velveeta melt. Turn heat to low and let simmer while the pasta cooks.
5. Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package instructions. Remember to salt your water for added flavor!
6. Drain pasta when done and add to the taco beef mixture. Stir together and dump into the prepared baking dish. Top with the shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 20 minutes. Garnish with chopped tomato and green onion before serving.

Tips for Success

Make sure to cook the pasta al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven. For extra flavor, try adding some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.

Additional Tips and Variations

You can switch up the cheese by using a blend like Colby Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicier kick. Feel free to add other toppings like sour cream or avocado slices when serving.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This dish is rich in protein and carbohydrates, making it a filling and energizing meal. It’s also a good source of calcium, thanks to the cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it up to the baking step and refrigerate. When ready to eat, simply bake it as directed.
• Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely, you can use any pasta you have on hand, just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Casserole is sure to become a family favorite. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! We’d love to hear your thoughts and any fun variations you come up with. Enjoy!

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