Spaghetti Tacos

Spaghetti Tacos are the ultimate quirky comfort food—a mashup made famous by the TV show iCarly and now loved by kids, teens, and fun-loving adults alike. This dish combines two universally loved foods: spaghetti and tacos, for a handheld, crunchy, cheesy delight. It’s weird, it’s wonderful, and it’s surprisingly tasty.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4–6

Ingredients:

For the Spaghetti:

8 oz (225g) spaghetti noodles

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 small onion, finely chopped

1/2 lb (225g) ground beef (or ground turkey, optional)

1 cup marinara or spaghetti sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (optional)

For the Tacos:

8–10 crunchy taco shells

Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, chopped parsley or basil, more cheese

Instructions:

1. Cook the Spaghetti:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.

Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Sauce:

In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil.

Sauté garlic and onion for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and soft.

(Optional) Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.

Add marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–10 minutes.

Toss the cooked spaghetti in the sauce.

Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella cheese until melted and combined.

3. Assemble the Tacos:

Warm taco shells in the oven for 2–3 minutes (to keep them crispy).

Carefully fill each taco shell with the spaghetti mixture.

Add optional toppings like extra cheese, herbs, or shredded lettuce.

Variations:

Vegetarian: Skip the meat and add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers.

Cheesy Upgrade: Top with more mozzarella and broil for 1–2 minutes.

Fusion Twist: Add a drizzle of hot sauce or ranch dressing.

️ Serving Tip:

Serve immediately while the taco shells are crispy. Best eaten with a napkin nearby—things can get deliciously messy!

Tips for Success

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente spaghetti holds up better inside tacos.

Drain the Sauce: Too much liquid will make the taco shells soggy. Let the sauce thicken slightly.

Taco Shell Warm-Up: Warm shells in the oven before filling to keep them crispy.

Kids’ Party Tip: Set up a build-your-own Spaghetti Taco bar!

Double Layer Hack: Place a soft tortilla under the hard shell to catch any spaghetti fallout.

❓ Q&A

Q: Can I make this vegetarian or vegan?

A: Absolutely! Just skip the meat and use plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast. Add veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.

Q: Can I use other pasta?

A: Yes! Angel hair, linguine, or even gluten-free pasta work. Just keep it thin so it fits in taco shells.

Q: Can I make them ahead of time?

A: You can prep the spaghetti in advance, but only assemble the tacos right before serving to keep the shells crunchy.

Q: What sauces work besides marinara?

A: Try pesto, Alfredo, or even spicy arrabbiata for different flavor profiles.

Q: Are these good for picky eaters?

A: Definitely—spaghetti and tacos are both kid-approved on their own, and even more fun together.

Nutrition (Approx. per 1 spaghetti taco)

Values vary based on ingredients used (meat, cheese, sauce type, taco shell brand).