Description
One-Pot Taco Spaghetti is a vibrant and comforting meal that combines bold taco seasoning with cozy spaghetti, smoked turkey bacon, and creamy plant-based cheese. This easy-to-make dish cooks entirely in one pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights while delivering zesty flavors and minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 6 ounces smoked turkey bacon, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 8 ounces spaghetti (or gluten-free pasta)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (natural)
- 1 cup shredded plant-based cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Optional Variations
- Diced bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for veggie boost
- Ground chicken, turkey, or plant-based crumbles as protein substitutes
- Extra chili powder or freshly chopped jalapeños for more spice
- Shredded plant-based mozzarella or plant-based smoked cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Smoked Turkey Bacon: Chop the smoked turkey bacon into bite-sized pieces and cook in a large pot over medium heat until crispy and golden brown, adding a rich smoky base to the dish.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot with the bacon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir in vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) and taco seasoning (natural) to create a flavorful sauce.
- Incorporate Spaghetti: Add uncooked spaghetti directly into the pot, gently pressing it down so it is mostly submerged in the liquid. Cover with a lid and cook, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the sauce.
- Stir in Plant-Based Cheese: Once the spaghetti is cooked, sprinkle shredded plant-based cheese into the pot and gently stir until melted and creamy, coating the pasta evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and top with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve immediately with optional garnishes or sides.
Notes
- Stir gently several times while cooking to prevent noodles from clumping together.
- Add extra vegetable broth if pasta sticks before fully cooking.
- Toast taco seasoning briefly in the pot before adding liquids for more intense flavor.
- Add plant-based cheese off heat to ensure a smooth creamy texture without overcooking.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro just before serving for best aroma and taste.
- Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat with a splash of vegetable broth or grape juice to maintain moisture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pot Cooking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: one pot, taco spaghetti, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey bacon, easy dinner, gluten free, Tex-Mex pasta
