Crockpot Taco Spaghetti Recipe Easy and Delicious Meal

Updated On: October 13, 2025

If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that requires minimal effort, this crockpot taco spaghetti recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to meal. Imagine the ease of tossing all your ingredients into a slow cooker, walking away, and coming back to a delicious, hearty dish that combines the bold, spicy flavors of tacos with the satisfying texture of spaghetti.

Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or anytime you crave a fuss-free meal packed with flavor.

This recipe brings together classic taco seasonings, ground beef, tomatoes, and pasta, all simmered to perfection in your crockpot. It’s a one-pot wonder that saves you time on cleanup and lets the slow cooker do the magic.

Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this taco spaghetti offers a versatile and filling dish everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This crockpot taco spaghetti recipe is a fantastic blend of two crowd-favorite dishes, providing the best of both worlds in one easy meal. Here’s why it’s a winner:

  • Hands-free cooking: Simply add all ingredients to the crockpot and let it cook while you get on with your day.
  • Bold taco flavors: Seasoned with a homemade taco spice blend that brings just the right amount of heat and zest.
  • Comfort food made easy: A hearty, cheesy, and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
  • Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike love the familiar flavors of tacos paired with spaghetti noodles.
  • Meal prep friendly: Makes great leftovers and freezes well for busy weeks.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning blend)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 cups uncooked spaghetti noodles, broken in half
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup frozen corn kernels (optional)
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Equipment

  • Crockpot / Slow cooker (at least 4-quart size)
  • Skillet or frying pan (for browning the ground beef)
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Colander (optional, for draining beans or corn)

Instructions

  1. Brown the ground beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
  2. Combine ingredients in crockpot: Transfer the cooked beef mixture into the crockpot. Add diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, water, taco seasoning, corn, and black beans (if using). Stir everything together well.
  3. Add spaghetti noodles: Break the uncooked spaghetti noodles in half and layer them evenly on top of the meat mixture. Do not stir yet.
  4. Cook low and slow: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the noodles are tender. Halfway through cooking, gently stir the noodles into the sauce to ensure even cooking.
  5. Add cheese and season: Once the noodles are cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top and cover again for 5-10 minutes until melted. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  6. Serve and garnish: Spoon the taco spaghetti onto plates and garnish with fresh cilantro or your favorite taco toppings like sour cream, sliced jalapeños, or diced avocado.

Tips & Variations

“To avoid mushy noodles, add them halfway through the cooking time instead of at the beginning.” This simple trick ensures perfectly cooked pasta every time.

  • Make it vegetarian: Skip the meat and add extra beans, lentils, or plant-based ground meat substitutes for a delicious meatless version.
  • Use gluten-free pasta: Swap regular spaghetti for gluten-free varieties to accommodate dietary needs.
  • Add veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to boost nutrition and flavor.
  • Cheese alternatives: Use pepper jack for a spicy kick or vegan cheese for dairy-free diets. For more vegan cheese inspiration, check out Best Vegan Pepper Jack Cheese Slice Recipe for Melty Flavor.
  • Spice it up: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix for extra heat.
  • Slow cooker timing: If your crockpot runs hot, check the noodles earlier to prevent overcooking.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving (serves 6)
Calories 380 kcal
Protein 24 g
Carbohydrates 38 g
Fat 12 g
Fiber 5 g
Sodium 650 mg

Serving Suggestions

This taco spaghetti is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides and toppings. For a complete meal, consider these ideas:

  • Serve with a side of fresh Mexican-style salad or a crisp green salad with lime dressing.
  • Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess.
  • Top with sliced avocado or guacamole for extra richness.
  • Sprinkle chopped green onions and shredded lettuce on top for a fresh crunch.
  • Pair with warm corn tortillas or tortilla chips to scoop up the flavorful sauce.
  • For a lighter side, try a refreshing cold vegetable soup recipe to balance the warmth of the pasta.

Conclusion

The crockpot taco spaghetti recipe is a delicious, easy-to-make meal that perfectly combines the zest of taco seasonings with the comfort of a pasta dinner. Its simplicity and rich flavors make it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing flavors to meld beautifully while you enjoy your day without worry. Plus, its adaptability means you can easily customize it to suit your dietary preferences and taste.

Try this recipe for a fuss-free, crowd-pleasing dinner that satisfies everyone at the table. And if you love exploring easy, wholesome meals, check out other recipes like Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious or dive into comforting soups with Apple Barn Pigeon Forge TN Vegetable Soup Recipe Guide.

Happy cooking!

📖 Recipe Card: Crockpot Taco Spaghetti

Description: A simple and flavorful crockpot meal combining taco seasoning with spaghetti for a delicious twist. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT4H
Total Time: PT4H10M

Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 8 oz uncooked spaghetti, broken in half
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: chopped cilantro and sour cream for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add ground beef, onion, and garlic; cook until beef is browned.
  3. Drain excess fat and stir in taco seasoning.
  4. Transfer beef mixture to crockpot.
  5. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth; stir to combine.
  6. Break spaghetti in half and add to crockpot, pushing down to submerge.
  7. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours.
  8. Stir gently before serving and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
  9. Garnish with cilantro and sour cream if desired.

Nutrition: Calories: 350 | Protein: 25g | Fat: 18g | Carbs: 22g

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Marta K

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