Taco night and pasta night combined? Yes, please! This Creamy Taco Spaghetti is a cozy, satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights.
I remember making this recipe for the first time when my kids couldn’t decide between tacos or spaghetti—so I decided to combine both! It quickly became a family favorite, with its rich, creamy sauce, perfectly seasoned beef, and cheesy goodness.
If you love bold, robust flavors with a creamy twist, this easy pasta recipe will be your new go-to. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings the best of Mexican and Italian comfort foods together in one dish.

Possible Substitutions for Creamy Taco Spaghetti
- Ground Beef Substitute: Use ground turkey, chicken, plant-based crumbles, lentils, or finely chopped mushrooms for a vegetarian option. All maintain a hearty texture and absorb the bold seasoning well.
- Dairy-Free Cream Options: Swap cream cheese with coconut cream, cashew cream, or a blend of pureed silken tofu with nutritional yeast for a similar creamy richness.
- Gluten-Free Pasta: Choose gluten-free spaghetti, rice noodles, or spiralized vegetables like zucchini noodles for a lower-carb, gluten-free variation.
- Cheese Alternatives: For dairy-free or vegan needs, use vegan cheddar shreds, nutritional yeast, or a homemade cashew queso sauce for a creamy, cheesy finish.
- Broth Options: Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or bone broth for an extra protein boost.

Expert Tips for Creamy Taco Spaghetti
- Prevent Soggy Pasta
- Problem: Overcooked spaghetti can become mushy when mixed with sauce.
- Solution: Cook the spaghetti just to al dente and rinse with cool water to stop the cooking process before adding it to the sauce.
- Avoid Greasy Sauce
- Problem: Ground beef can leave excess grease, making the dish feel heavy.
- Solution: Drain the beef thoroughly after browning to keep the sauce balanced and flavorful.
- Smooth Cheese Integration
- Problem: Cheese clumping instead of melting smoothly.
- Solution: Grate cheese finely and add it gradually over low heat, stirring constantly for a silky sauce.
- Rich, Bold Flavor
- Problem: The sauce can taste bland without proper seasoning.
- Solution: Taste and adjust taco seasoning, adding a pinch of salt, cumin, or smoked paprika for depth.
- Avoid a Thick Sauce
- Problem: Sauce can thicken too much while simmering.
- Solution: Add a splash of broth or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and ensure perfect creaminess.

FAQs for Creamy Taco Spaghetti
Can I make this recipe without cream cheese?
Yes! Use sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a non-dairy alternative for a similar creamy texture.
What if I don’t have taco seasoning?
Mix chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a homemade version.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the meat first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours.
Can I make this a one-pot meal?
Yes, but cook the pasta directly in the sauce with extra broth to ensure it cooks through and absorbs the flavors.

Storing, Freezing, and Make-Ahead Creamy Taco Spaghetti
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
- Make-Ahead Option: Brown the beef, prepare the sauce, and pre-cook the pasta a day ahead. Assemble and heat when ready to serve.
More Pasta Ideas
- Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake
- Hamburger Mac & Cheese Casserole
- Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
- Homemade Ground Turkey Pasta
- Ground Beef Stroganoff
This Creamy Taco Spaghetti has become a weeknight hero in my home, blending comfort food with bold, unforgettable taco flavors.
I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and a rating. Share your finished dish on social media. I can’t wait to see your delicious creations!

Creamy Taco Spaghetti Recipe
Creamy Taco Spaghetti blends savory ground beef, rich cream cheese, and taco seasoning with perfectly cooked spaghetti for a bold, cheesy dinner delight. This easy recipe is perfect for weeknights and can be adapted for various diets, ensuring a comforting meal for everyone.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or preferred protein)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
- 8 oz spaghetti, uncooked
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook spaghetti separately according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, cook ground beef until fully browned. Drain excess grease.
- Season the Beef: Add taco seasoning and stir well. Pour in salsa and chicken broth. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add the Cream Cheese: Stir in cream cheese until fully melted.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce, tossing gently to coat.
- Cheese it Up: Add half the shredded cheese, mixing it thoroughly. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top and let it melt before serving.
Notes
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 756Total Fat 50gSaturated Fat 25gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 19gCholesterol 189mgSodium 1669mgCarbohydrates 30gFiber 3gSugar 7gProtein 45g