Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Taco Spaghetti Casserole is a fun, flavorful twist on both classic spaghetti and the ever-popular taco. This easy-to-make casserole combines the comforting texture of pasta with the bold, zesty flavors of taco seasoning, chicken, salsa, and cheese. It’s a perfect dish for busy weeknights, casual dinners, or even a potluck, as it’s simple to prepare and packed with flavor that everyone will love. The creamy base, made with cream of chicken soup and sour cream, adds a smooth richness to the casserole, while the salsa and taco seasoning give it that signature Mexican flavor. Topped with a generous amount of Mexican blend cheese, this casserole bakes into a melty, golden, and satisfying dish. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro brings a burst of freshness that elevates the whole meal. Whether you’re serving it to your family or bringing it to a gathering, Taco Spaghetti Casserole is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Taco Spaghetti Casserole is an absolute winner for those who love the combination of pasta and Mexican flavors. The creamy, cheesy filling melds beautifully with the taco seasoning, giving you the comforting familiarity of spaghetti, but with a flavorful and spicy kick. It’s a one-dish meal that comes together quickly and doesn’t require many ingredients. The use of rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken makes it even easier to prepare. The blend of textures—soft pasta, tender chicken, gooey cheese, and the crispy top—is what makes this casserole so irresistible. Plus, it’s easily customizable with your favorite taco toppings, such as guacamole, sour cream, or jalapeños, making it a versatile dish for everyone’s taste.

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Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• Thin spaghetti or angel hair pasta, cooked al dente
• Cooked chicken, chopped or shredded
• Mexican blend cheese, divided
• Cream of chicken soup (2 cans)
• Sour cream
• Salsa
• Taco seasoning

For Topping:

• Fresh chopped cilantro (optional)

Variations

1. Ground Beef or Turkey: Swap the chicken for ground beef or turkey for a traditional taco flavor.
2. Spicy Version: Add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the casserole for a spicy kick.
3. Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and use black beans, corn, or extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a vegetarian casserole.
4. Add More Veggies: Incorporate diced tomatoes, onions, or bell peppers into the casserole for added flavor and nutrition.
5. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this casserole gluten-free, and check your soup for gluten-free options.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, salsa, and taco seasoning. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the Mexican blend cheese, reserving the remaining 1/2 cup for the topping. Mix everything until it’s well combined.

Step 3: Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the casserole mixture and stir gently to combine, making sure the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy, cheesy mixture.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 5: Add the Topping

Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of Mexican blend cheese over the top of the casserole.

Step 6: Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro, if desired, and serve warm.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker and easier prep, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It adds flavor and saves time.
• Adjust the Spice Level: You can adjust the heat level by adding more or less taco seasoning or salsa. Mild or medium salsa works great if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Extra Creaminess: For an even creamier casserole, you can add a little bit of cream cheese to the mixture.
• Make it a Make-Ahead Meal: This casserole can be assembled in advance and refrigerated until you’re ready to bake it. Just add the topping right before baking.

How to Serve

Taco Spaghetti Casserole is a meal in itself, but it pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Serve it with a fresh green salad, Mexican rice, or tortilla chips for a complete meal. For an extra Mexican flair, top individual servings with sour cream, guacamole, or a dollop of salsa. It also pairs wonderfully with a cold beverage like iced tea or a light margarita for an added touch of fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven until hot and bubbly.

Freezing

To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the entire casserole with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground beef instead of chicken?

Yes, ground beef is a great substitution and adds a more traditional taco flavor to the casserole.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta that you prefer, such as penne or rotini, will work in this recipe.

3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just add the cheese topping before baking.

4. Can I freeze Taco Spaghetti Casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just assemble and freeze before baking, or freeze leftovers after baking. Be sure to thaw before reheating.

5. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace the chicken with black beans, corn, or other vegetables to make it vegetarian.

6. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use other cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a different flavor.

7. Can I adjust the spice level?

Yes, you can add more or less taco seasoning or use a mild salsa to control the spice level.

8. How do I make the casserole spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or use a hot salsa to give the casserole a spicy kick.

9. Can I use a low-fat version of sour cream or cream of chicken soup?

Yes, you can use reduced-fat or fat-free versions of sour cream and cream of chicken soup if you want a lighter version of the casserole.

10. How long does this casserole take to bake?

The casserole will bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top is golden and bubbly.

Conclusion

Taco Spaghetti Casserole is a fun and flavorful dish that brings together the best of pasta and Mexican flavors. It’s an easy, one-pan meal that’s sure to please the whole family. With creamy ingredients like sour cream and cream of chicken soup, zesty taco seasoning, and the addition of chicken and cheese, this casserole is a hearty and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, and the leftovers are just as delicious the next day. Whether you add your favorite toppings or enjoy it as is, Taco Spaghetti Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

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