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If you love the bold flavors of tacos but want something comforting and easy to share, the Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe will quickly become your new go-to dinner. This layered delight combines tender spaghetti, savory chicken, creamy cheese, and a perfect blend of taco seasoning and salsa, offering a mouthwatering fusion that’s both familiar and fresh. It’s a one-dish meal that tastes like a fiesta in every bite and comes together faster than you’d expect for such a satisfying and hearty casserole.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each one brings an essential element—whether it’s the creamy texture from the sour cream, the cheesy melt that binds everything together, or the spicy kick from the taco seasoning—that makes the dish burst with flavor and color.
- 8 ounces thin spaghetti or angel hair pasta: Cooked al dente to give just the right bite and soak up all those delicious sauces.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded: A tender protein base that makes this casserole hearty and filling.
- 2 cups Mexican blend cheese, divided: Melted gooey cheese creates irresistible creaminess on top and inside.
- 2 cans (10 ounces each) cream of chicken soup: Adds richness and a smooth texture to bind everything perfectly.
- 1 cup sour cream: Brings tanginess and helps keep the casserole moist and luscious.
- 1 cup salsa: Infuses vibrant flavor and a hint of spiciness that livens up every forkful.
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning: The magic spice blend that ties the Mexican-inspired flavors together.
- Fresh chopped cilantro for topping (optional): Adds a fresh, herbal brightness that finishes the dish beautifully.
How to Make Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This simple preparation ensures that your casserole doesn’t stick and that it cooks evenly to bubbly perfection.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the cooked spaghetti, chopped chicken, 1 cup of Mexican blend cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, salsa, and taco seasoning until everything is evenly incorporated. This mix is where all those delicious flavors blend and get cozy.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the creamy, cheesy mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese on top for that irresistible golden cheese crust. Cover it with foil, then bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the casserole is heated through and bubbling hot around the edges.
Step 4: Serve
Once it’s out of the oven, give the casserole a few minutes to cool slightly. This brief rest lets the flavors settle and makes it easier to slice. Top with fresh chopped cilantro if you like for a little fresh sparkle on every serving.
How to Serve Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh cilantro is a classic choice, but you can also sprinkle on some sliced green onions, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream to complement the rich, spicy notes of the casserole. Each garnish adds a fresh texture and brightness that balances the warmth of the dish.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands strong on its own, but pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette, black bean salad, or even some tortilla chips for extra crunch. These sides bring a refreshing contrast that completes the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for personal portions. It also makes a fabulous potluck dish when topped with layers of cheese and baked in a larger casserole dish — perfect for sharing the taco-loving goodness with friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your leftover Taco Spaghetti Casserole tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it an even tastier lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Just assemble it in a freezer-safe dish before baking, then wrap it well and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, bake it straight from the freezer — just add extra time to ensure it’s heated all the way through.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly again. To keep the cheese from drying out, add a sprinkle of water over the surface and cover loosely with foil while reheating.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of chicken in the Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground beef is a classic taco protein and works wonderfully in this casserole. Just cook it fully and season it with taco seasoning before mixing it in.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the chicken for a plant-based protein like black beans or sautéed vegetables, and use a vegetarian cream of mushroom soup in place of the cream of chicken. The flavors will still be deliciously satisfying.
What kind of salsa works best in this recipe?
Choose a salsa that matches your preferred heat level. A medium salsa brings a balanced kick without overwhelming the dish, but feel free to use mild or spicy salsa according to your taste.
Can I prepare the Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe entirely ahead of time?
Yes, you can combine all the ingredients and assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate, then bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.
How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
The casserole is ready when it’s bubbling around the edges and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden. Usually, 25 to 30 minutes at 350°F will do the trick.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe, it will quickly become a favorite for busy weeknights, potlucks, or anytime you want flavor-packed comfort food with minimal fuss. It’s simple to make, ridiculously tasty, and the perfect way to enjoy taco flavors in a whole new, cozy form. So go ahead, gather those ingredients, and let this casserole bring a fiesta to your dinner table!
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Print
Taco Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
A flavorful and easy Taco Spaghetti Casserole combining tender spaghetti, seasoned chicken, creamy soup, salsa, and melted Mexican cheese, baked to bubbly perfection for a comforting family dinner.
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
- Fresh chopped cilantro for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, chopped or shredded chicken, 1 cup of the Mexican blend cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, salsa, and taco seasoning. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Mexican blend cheese evenly on top. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the casserole is heated through, bubbly, and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro if desired to add a fresh herbal note.
Notes
- You can substitute cooked ground beef for chicken to change up the protein.
- If you prefer spicier casserole, add extra salsa or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and verify that taco seasoning and soup are gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
