Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Bake

Cheesy taco spaghetti casserole blends tender pasta with savory ground beef chili beans and smooth Velveeta for a comforting onepan meal. Taco seasoning brings zesty flavor while layers of melted cheese finish the bake with irresistible richness. Quick to prepare and easy on the budget this dish is perfect for feeding a family and enjoys rave reviews from both kids and adults. Bake until bubbly and golden then serve straight from the oven or save leftovers for an easy nextday dinner that reheats beautifully.

I first threw this together during a hectic sports week and it instantly became a regular in our meal rotation. The cheesy smell alone pulls everyone straight to the table.

Ingredients

• Thin spaghetti noodles: Cook quickly and soak up taco flavors well. Choose evenly sized noodles for uniform cooking
• Ground beef: Adds rich protein, opt for fresh for the best taste and texture
• Taco seasoning: Brings the zesty taco flavor. Pick a low sodium version or your favorite homemade blend
• Chili beans undrained: Keep the casserole moist and add chili seasoning. Look for beans with a flavorful sauce
• Tomato sauce: Adds tang and depth. Use plain tomato sauce without heavy herbs so the seasoning shines
• Velveeta cheese cubed: Creates the creamy texture. Use fresh unopened Velveeta for smooth melting
• Shredded cheese: Tops the casserole with golden bubbly goodness. Use a good melting blend like cheddar or Colby Jack

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti noodles until just al dente. Drain well. They should have a slight bite left to avoid mushiness after baking

Brown the Beef:

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Crumble in the ground beef and cook stirring often until completely browned. No pink should remain. Taking time here builds better flavor and texture

Season and Simmer:

Sprinkle taco seasoning over the beef. Add the recommended amount of water and stir to coat the meat evenly. Reduce heat and let it simmer allowing the spices to infuse the beef thoroughly

Add the Beans Sauce and Cheese:

Pour in the undrained chili beans then add tomato sauce and Velveeta cubes. Stir gently on low heat until the cheese melts fully forming a thick creamy sauce

Combine with Pasta:

Pour the cheesy beef and bean mixture into the drained pot of noodles. Toss carefully so each spaghetti strand is coated evenly with sauce

Assemble in Casserole:

Grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish. Pour the mixture in and spread out evenly to the edges for a uniform bake

Top and Bake:

Sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Bake uncovered in a preheated oven set to 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about twenty minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden edges

My kids always associate this casserole with our Friday night movie dinners and family fun time

Storage Tips

Once completely cooled transfer leftovers into airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage freeze single portions tightly wrapped in plastic and foil. Reheat in the microwave or oven adding a little extra cheese for freshness.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can lighten the dish without losing flavor. Use black beans and pinto beans if you don’t have chili beans handy. Any melt friendly cheese blend works for the topping. Gluten free noodles can be used but cook gently to avoid breaking.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this casserole with a simple green salad or steamed broccoli for a fresh balance. Add fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro tomatoes or jalapeños for brightness and color. It’s perfect for potlucks and always disappears fast.

Serve warm with optional fresh garnishes. Leftovers reheat beautifully making this a great make ahead family meal.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use a different cheese besides Velveeta?

Yes, shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend melt well and add delicious flavor to the casserole.

→ Is it possible to substitute ground turkey for beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey makes a lighter alternative without sacrificing the savory taste of the dish.

→ Can this be assembled ahead and refrigerated?

Assemble in advance and refrigerate, tightly covered, for up to 24 hours before baking as directed.

→ What pasta shapes work if I don’t have spaghetti?

Penne, rotini, or ziti can be used. Just adjust cook time as needed for different pasta shapes.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator; they stay fresh for up to three days and reheat easily.

→ Can I make this spicy?

For heat, add diced jalapeño, extra chili powder, or a touch of hot sauce to the meat mixture.