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My Crockpot Taco Spaghetti recipe came from one of those what's in the pantry moments. Now it's our favorite busy day dinner. The slow cooker works its magic blending those taco seasonings with tender pasta creating something truly special no standing over the stove required.
Kitchen Magic Made Easy
There's something wonderful about a recipe that practically makes itself. Pop everything in your slow cooker and the pasta soaks up all those amazing flavors while you're off doing other things. Perfect for those days when you need dinner to cook itself.
Your Shopping List
- Olive Oil: Just enough for browning.
- Ground Beef: Lean works best here.
- Yellow Onion: Adds such nice flavor.
- Taco Seasoning: Store bought or homemade your choice.
- Rotel Tomatoes: Brings that perfect kick.
- Fresh Cilantro: Makes everything pop.
- Spaghetti: Regular dried pasta.
- Beef Broth: For rich flavor.
- Sharp Cheddar: Gets all melty and delicious.
Let's Get Cooking
- Start With The Beef
- Brown it up with onions salt and pepper drain off the extra fat.
- Fill Your Crockpot
- Everything goes in taco seasoning tomatoes cilantro pasta and broth give it a good stir.
- Let It Cook
- Cover and cook on high about 2 hours check those noodles at 1½.
- Time To Eat
- Stir in that cheese sprinkle with cilantro serve it up hot.
Make It Your Way
Need gluten free? Use your favorite alternative pasta. Want more spice? Go for hot Rotel. Love toppings? Try crushed tortilla chips sour cream or avocado on top.
Save Some For Later
Keeps nicely in the fridge couple days in a sealed container. Freezes well too up to 2 months. Add a splash of broth when reheating brings back all that saucy goodness.
Perfect Partners
Serve it up with fresh guacamole pico de gallo or a crisp Mexican salad. Some garlic bread on the side never hurts either soaks up all that yummy sauce.
Quick Answers
No need to boil pasta first it cooks perfectly right in the pot. The meat stays nice and juicy thanks to slow cooking. Easy to adjust for any diet makes everyone happy.
Success Tips
Keep those noodles covered with liquid while cooking. Toast your taco seasoning with the meat adds extra flavor. Watch that cooking time nobody likes mushy pasta.
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Why We Love It
This dish brings together everything we love about tacos and pasta. Slow cooking lets all those flavors mingle together perfectly. Add melty cheese and you've got pure comfort food.
Switch It Up
Try different cheeses like pepper jack for extra kick. Turkey or chicken works great too. Toss in some peppers or corn for more veggies. Crushed tortilla chips on top add fun crunch.
Feed A Crowd
Double everything for bigger gatherings mix well for even flavor. Set up a toppings bar let everyone customize their bowl with sour cream salsa lettuce jalapeños.
Perfect Match
Sip some limeade or margaritas alongside. Add chips guacamole spicy bean dip for the full experience. End with churros or flan if you're feeling fancy.
Plan Ahead
Make a big batch divide into portions freeze for later. Perfect for quick lunches or dinners just add a little liquid when reheating.
Family Favorite
This recipe brings two comfort foods together in the best way. Easy to make flexible enough for everyone's taste it's sure to become your go to dinner too.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this ahead?
Yes, store in fridge up to 2 days or freeze up to 2 months. Add liquid when reheating to prevent dryness.
- → How do I prevent overcooked pasta?
Check pasta at 1.5 hours, especially if using thin spaghetti. Remove lid once pasta reaches desired texture.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Use mild or hot Rotel tomatoes to adjust heat. Regular taco seasoning can be swapped for mild or hot versions.
- → What can I substitute for cilantro?
Fresh parsley works well as a cilantro alternative without changing the dish's character.
- → Why break the spaghetti in half?
Breaking spaghetti helps it fit in the crockpot and ensures even cooking in the liquid.