Southwestern Spaghetti
A flavorful, hearty Southwestern spaghetti dish combining ground beef, taco seasonings, and vegetables, topped with cheese. Perfect for a quick, satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti according to package directions.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until done and drain excess fat.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, spaghetti sauce, sliced mushrooms, and sliced ripe olives.
- Drain the cooked spaghetti and stir it into the beef mixture.
- Serve topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, and salsa if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey instead of beef. You can also swap the spaghetti for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. Adding black beans or corn can enhance the dish's texture and flavor. For a spicier kick, incorporate jalapeños or hot salsa. This dish is great for using up leftover taco ingredients from recipes like Delicious Healthy Chili.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Southwestern Spaghetti with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to balance the flavors. It also pairs well with a refreshing fruit salad for a light dessert. Consider topping with diced avocado or fresh cilantro for added freshness, and serve with a side of salsa for dipping or drizzling.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave on medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to prevent uneven heating. You can also reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southwestern Spaghetti contains roughly 928 calories, with 26g protein, 125g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (53% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (42% of the Daily Value), and calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1828mg per serving (79% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture and cook the spaghetti in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, combine them and heat through. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or gatherings.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based protein like lentils or crumbled tempeh. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for additional flavor. Use a vegetarian taco seasoning to keep the flavors aligned.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover Southwestern Spaghetti can be repurposed into a delicious baked casserole. Simply place the spaghetti in a baking dish, top with additional cheese, and bake at 350°F until bubbly. You could also mix it into a soup or use it as a filling for stuffed peppers for a new meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).