If you love the bold flavors of tacos and the comforting charm of pasta casseroles, then you are going to be absolutely smitten with this Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe. It’s a fun and flavorful twist that combines tender spaghetti, creamy cheese, zesty salsa, and seasoned chicken all baked together into one irresistible dish. Not only does it come together super quickly, but it also makes for a satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or feeding a hungry crowd, this Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe ticks all the boxes for tasty and simple!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For such a scrumptious dish, the ingredients here are straightforward yet incredibly impactful. Each element plays a crucial role—from the al dente pasta giving a tender bite, to the creamy soups and cheeses that envelop everything in lusciousness, and the taco seasoning that brings that signature taco flavor to life.
- 8 ounces thin spaghetti or angel hair pasta: Cooked al dente for the perfect tender but slightly firm texture that won’t clump up.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded: Adds hearty protein and soaks up all the delicious flavors beautifully.
- 2 cups Mexican blend cheese, divided: Provides a gooey, melty, and savory topping and mix-in that’s pure comfort food magic.
- 2 cans (10 ounces each) cream of chicken soup: These create the creamy base that binds the casserole together, keeping it moist and flavorful.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds a tangy creaminess that balances the spices and enriches the texture.
- 1 cup salsa: Brings zest, moisture, and a little kick, infusing the whole dish with classic taco vibes.
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning: The secret spice blend that delivers authentic taco flavor without any fuss.
- Fresh chopped cilantro for topping (optional): A burst of fresh herbiness that brightens every bite.
How to Make Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This step might seem simple, but it ensures your casserole won’t stick and will come out beautifully baked every time.
Step 2: Mix the Magic Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together your cooked pasta, chicken, one cup of the glorious Mexican blend cheese, the cream of chicken soups, sour cream, salsa, and taco seasoning. Make sure everything is combined evenly so every bite is packed with flavor and creamy goodness.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Transfer this delicious mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining one cup of cheese evenly over the top. Cover the dish and pop it into the oven. Let it bake for 25 to 30 minutes until it’s heated through, bubbly, and oh-so-inviting.
Step 4: Let It Cool and Garnish
Once baked, give the casserole a few minutes to cool slightly—this makes it easier to serve and lets the flavors settle. If you like, sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor that complements the rich, cheesy layers beneath.
How to Serve Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Topping your Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe with fresh cilantro or even a dollop of sour cream can elevate the dish instantly. If you want a little crunch, consider adding crushed tortilla chips on top for a delightful texture contrast. A squeeze of lime juice just before serving also gives a bright finish that wakes up all the other flavors.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a hearty meal on its own, but pairing it with a light green salad or some roasted veggies adds freshness and balance. A side of refried beans or Mexican street corn can complement the taco flavors beautifully, making the whole spread feel festive and complete.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins or mini cast iron skillets—perfect for a taco night party or family dinner. You could even scoop the casserole into crispy taco shells for a playful taco-spaghetti mashup that guests will rave about. Presentation is all about bringing that joyful taco spirit to the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cool it completely before storing to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
This casserole freezes really well! If you want to make it ahead, let it cool fully, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months, ready for a quick, comforting meal later on.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole dish in a 350°F oven until bubbly and warmed through—around 20 minutes. Adding a bit of extra cheese on top during reheating keeps it silky and melty.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of chicken in this Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground beef or even turkey works great here. Just brown the meat before mixing it with the other ingredients for a delicious twist on this casserole.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap out the chicken for cooked beans or a meat substitute, and use a vegetarian cream soup if needed. The taco seasoning and salsa will keep the flavors vibrant.
What type of cheese is best for this casserole?
A Mexican blend cheese is ideal because it melts well and offers a nice balance of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and sometimes mozzarella. But feel free to experiment with your favorite melty cheeses.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time before baking?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
How spicy is this Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe?
The heat level depends on the salsa and taco seasoning you use. For a milder dish, opt for mild salsa and seasoning mixes, or amp it up with spicy varieties for a lively kick.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting and delightful about this Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe that keeps me coming back. It’s the perfect blend of hearty, creamy, and zesty flavors all baked into one satisfying dish that effortlessly brings joy to the dinner table. Give it a try soon—you’ll find it’s a new family favorite in the making!
Print
Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
This Taco Spaghetti Casserole is a flavorful fusion dish combining the comforting texture of spaghetti with the zesty, spicy flair of taco ingredients. A creamy mixture of chicken, taco seasoning, salsa, and cheese baked to bubbly perfection makes it a perfect crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces thin spaghetti or angel hair pasta, cooked al dente
- 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded
- 2 cups Mexican blend cheese, divided
- 2 cans (10 ounces each) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
Optional Topping
- Fresh chopped cilantro for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, chopped or shredded cooked chicken, 1 cup of the Mexican blend cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, salsa, and taco seasoning. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Mexican blend cheese evenly over the top to create a cheesy crust.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool slightly to set. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro if desired, and serve warm for a delicious hearty meal.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or use a spicy salsa.
- Chicken can be substituted with ground beef or turkey for variation.
- Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente to avoid mushiness after baking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- If dairy-free, substitute sour cream and cheese with appropriate non-dairy alternatives.
