Next, it’s time to assemble our Spaghetti Tacos! I like to preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm up my taco shells in there for about 5-7 minutes—the heat makes them extra crispy and delicious. Once the shells are warm, I spoon generous portions of the spaghetti mixture into each taco shell, piling it high! Top each taco with a sprinkle of shredded cheese, then pop them back in the oven just long enough for the cheese to melt, about 3-4 minutes. Let your kitchen fill with that tantalizing aroma; it’s simply irresistible!
After that, it’s time to get creative! I set up a toppings bar with all the fixings: crisp lettuce, juicy diced tomatoes, creamy sour cream, zesty salsa, and maybe some avocado for good measure. Everyone can customize their own taco however they like, which makes for a fun and interactive meal. After that, all that’s left is to dig in and enjoy the delightful contrast of flavors and textures!
Pro Tips for Best Results
I tested this three ways to see which meat worked best, and I have to say, ground turkey gives you a lighter flavor, while beef adds a nice, savory richness. My family preferred the beef, but it’s entirely up to you! Also, I’ve found that a hint of garlic powder in the meat adds an extra layer of flavor without overwhelming the dish.
I also recommend mixing a small amount of the spaghetti cooking water into the meat mixture if it seems too thick. This gives a lovely, cohesive texture and prevents the mixture from being too dry. Just a spoonful goes a long way!
Lastly, for those who love spice, add a chopped jalapeño or a sprinkle of chili flakes into your meat mixture. It gives your Spaghetti Tacos a delightful kick that I absolutely adore, but be mindful—you can always add spice, but it’s tough to take it away!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I encountered was overcooking the spaghetti. No one wants mushy noodles in their taco! Make sure to test the spaghetti a minute or two before the package instructions suggest, as it will continue to cook slightly after draining.
Another hiccup is filling the taco shells too full. Trust me; it’s tempting to pile it all on, but leaving some space at the top allows for easier handling and munching! I’ve had my fair share of spaghetti explosions, and they’re not pretty.
Also, be cautious with the taco seasoning. Some brands can be quite salty. If you’re unsure, start by adding half of the packet to your meat, taste it, and then adjust accordingly to suit your palate.
To add humor, I once mistakenly thought stirring in sugar would balance out the flavor, but it just made everything… well, weird! Less is more when it comes to seasoning.
(See the next page below to continue…)