CrockPot Taco Spaghetti Recipe 🌮🍝
If you’re looking for an easy, comforting, and flavor-packed meal, CrockPot Taco Spaghetti is the perfect choice! This one-pot wonder combines the zesty flavors of tacos with the hearty satisfaction of spaghetti, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. Ideal for busy weeknights or family dinners, this recipe is sure to be a hit at your table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 medium red or green bell pepper, diced
- 15 oz crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup salsa
- 15 oz canned corn, drained
- 1 package taco seasoning (~3 tbsp)
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 12 oz spaghetti pasta
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh minced cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the ground beef until crumbled and no longer pink. Season with salt and pepper.
- Drain any excess grease if needed.
Step 2: Transfer to Slow Cooker
- Transfer the cooked beef to the bottom of a 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker.
Step 3: Add Ingredients
- Add the diced bell pepper, crushed tomatoes, salsa, drained corn, taco seasoning, and chicken broth.
- Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 4: Cook on High
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
- Cook on high for 3-4 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Add Spaghetti
- Break the spaghetti noodles in half and add them directly to the slow cooker.
- Stir to distribute the pasta evenly in the sauce.
- Cover and cook for an additional 10-20 minutes, or until the spaghetti is cooked al dente.
Step 6: Add Cheese
- Once the spaghetti is tender, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Cover and let sit for 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt.
Step 7: Serve
- Stir the melted cheese into the spaghetti.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Topping Ideas
Elevate your CrockPot Taco Spaghetti with these tasty toppings:
- Sour cream
- Sliced avocado or guacamole
- Extra shredded cheese
- Crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy topping
- Diced jalapeños for added heat
Tips for Success
- Spicy twist: Use spicy salsa or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Protein swap: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the meat and add black beans or pinto beans for protein.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This CrockPot Taco Spaghetti is everything you want in a meal: bold flavors, minimal prep, and the ultimate comfort food experience. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, it’s an easy and delicious choice that will quickly become a family favorite.
Enjoy every bite of this hearty, cheesy dish! 🌮🍝✨