If you love the vibrant flavors of Tex-Mex but crave the comforting feel of pasta, then the Million Dollar Taco Spaghetti Recipe is going to become your new favorite dinner hack. This dish unites spaghetti with zesty taco-seasoned beef and creamy cheese layers in one irresistible casserole that’s hearty, cheesy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting friends, this recipe offers a dazzlingly simple way to serve up a crowd-pleaser with a twist—and the best part is, it’s all done in under an hour!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that combine to create a spectacular symphony of tastes and textures. Each item plays a key role, whether it’s adding spice, creaminess, or that classic Mexican cheese finish that makes every bite melt in your mouth.
- Spaghetti (16-oz): Choose your favorite brand, and be sure to cook it just al dente for the perfect texture in the casserole.
- Ground beef (1 lb): Lean or regular, it forms the savory taco-flavored meat base that ties the dish together.
- Taco seasoning (1-oz package): This pre-mixed blend brings the classic taco spices that give the dish its signature kick.
- Rotel tomatoes (10-oz can, undrained): These add a juicy, slightly spicy tomato element, balancing the richness with a subtle tang.
- Spaghetti sauce (28-oz jar): Provides a deeper tomato flavor and moistens the whole casserole beautifully.
- Cottage cheese (1 cup): Adds a gentle creaminess that lightens the texture and blends with the other cheeses.
- Cream cheese (8-oz, softened): Creates that luscious, velvety layer that makes this taco spaghetti truly “million dollar” quality.
- Sour cream (¼ cup): Brings a tangy, smooth richness to the cheese mixture, balancing the spices perfectly.
- Parsley (2 Tbsp): Fresh or dried, parsley adds a hint of herbaceous brightness and color contrast.
- Garlic powder (½ tsp): A subtle layer of flavor that builds savory depth without overpowering the dish.
- Mexican cheese blend (2 cups shredded): The ultimate finishing touch, melting to create that cheesy, golden crust everyone loves.
How to Make Million Dollar Taco Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Spaghetti
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While it heats, cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until just tender. Drain it well and set aside to cool slightly, so it doesn’t get mushy once baked.
Step 2: Cook and Season the Beef
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef fully, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Once it’s no longer pink, drain the excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy. Stir in the taco seasoning, undrained Rotel tomatoes, and the jar of spaghetti sauce until everything is evenly combined. This rich, flavorful meat sauce is going to bring all the taco goodness into your spaghetti dish.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Cheese Layer
In a large bowl, blend together cottage cheese, softened cream cheese, sour cream, parsley, and garlic powder. This mixture will add incredible creaminess and a subtle herbal undertone, acting as the luscious middle layer between the pasta noodles.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Layer half of the cooked spaghetti on the bottom, then spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the noodles. Add the remaining spaghetti on top, pour the taco-beef sauce all over, and finally sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese blend over everything for that melty, golden finish.
Step 5: Bake and Rest
Bake the assembled dish uncovered in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to bubble and brown nicely. Once baked, let the casserole cool for 10 to 15 minutes before serving—this resting time helps the layers set, so it slices beautifully.
How to Serve Million Dollar Taco Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation and flavor, sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro or green onions on top just before serving. A dollop of sour cream or a few slices of ripe avocado can add a creamy, fresh contrast that pairs wonderfully with the spicy taco sauce base.
Side Dishes
This Million Dollar Taco Spaghetti Recipe shines best when paired with crisp, refreshing sides such as a crunchy green salad with a zesty lime vinaigrette or a simple bowl of tortilla chips for scooping. You can also offer a side of black beans or corn salsa to complement the Tex-Mex vibe.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress at a potluck or family dinner, serve individual portions in small ramekins or even mini cast-iron skillets for a rustic, restaurant-style feel. Adding colorful bowls of sliced jalapeños, olives, or diced tomatoes allows everyone to customize their plates with fun taco toppings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The Million Dollar Taco Spaghetti Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to preserve the flavors and moisture, making it an ideal option for quick lunches or next-day dinners.
Freezing
If you want to save it for even longer, this casserole freezes well. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or place the whole casserole covered with foil in a 350-degree oven until heated through, typically 20 to 25 minutes. Adding a splash of water or extra cheese on top helps keep it moist and delicious during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works well in this recipe. Just be mindful that it might be a bit milder in flavor, so you may want to add a pinch more taco seasoning.
What kind of cheese is best for this dish?
The recipe calls for a Mexican cheese blend because it combines cheddar, Monterey Jack, and others that melt beautifully and add authentic flavor. If you can’t find it, shredded mozzarella and cheddar mix works as a tasty substitute.
Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level mostly depends on the taco seasoning and Rotel tomatoes used. If you prefer a milder taste, opt for mild taco seasoning or drain some of the Rotel juice. For an extra kick, feel free to add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the ground beef with cooked lentils, chopped mushrooms, or a plant-based meat substitute. The seasoning and sauce will still make it flavorful and satisfying.
How do I reheat without drying it out?
Add a sprinkle of water or a little extra sauce before reheating and cover the dish tightly with foil. This will keep the moisture in and prevent the casserole from drying out.
Final Thoughts
The Million Dollar Taco Spaghetti Recipe is one of those magical dishes that bring together comfort food and bold flavors effortlessly. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family get-togethers, or anytime you want impressive ease and incredible taste. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience just how fun and delicious taco night can get when it meets spaghetti!
Print
Million Dollar Taco Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Million Dollar Taco Spaghetti is a delicious fusion dish that combines the flavorful spices of taco seasoning with classic spaghetti. This baked casserole features layers of spaghetti, creamy cheese mixtures, seasoned ground beef, and a zesty tomato sauce, all baked to bubbly perfection. It’s a crowd-pleasing meal perfect for family dinners or potlucks, delivering a comforting and hearty twist on traditional spaghetti.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 (16-oz) package spaghetti
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 (1-oz) package taco seasoning
- 1 (10-oz) can Rotel tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (28-oz) jar spaghetti sauce
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 2 Tbsp parsley
- ½ tsp garlic powder
Topping
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Prepare Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning, undrained Rotel tomatoes, and spaghetti sauce, mixing well. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Mix Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, softened cream cheese, sour cream, parsley, and garlic powder. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Assemble Casserole: Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Spread half of the cooked spaghetti evenly on the bottom of the dish. Carefully spread the cream cheese mixture over the noodles. Layer the remaining spaghetti on top. Pour the meat sauce evenly over the top layer of noodles. Finally, sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese blend over everything.
- Bake: Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35 to 45 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 10 to 15 minutes before serving to let it set and make portions easier to cut.
Notes
- To add extra flavor, you can mix in chopped onions or bell peppers with the ground beef when browning.
- Using fresh parsley can enhance the flavor; if using dried, stick to 2 teaspoons instead of tablespoons.
- For a spicier dish, use a hotter variety of Rotel tomatoes or add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Make sure to let the casserole rest before serving to allow it to set properly.
