Mama Mia Spaghetti Tacos

Introduction

There’s something undeniably fun and delicious about combining two beloved meals into one unique dish, and that’s exactly what you get with Mama Mia Spaghetti Tacos. When I first introduced this recipe to my family, I was met with a mix of curiosity and excitement. The idea of spaghetti served in crunchy taco shells sparked a lively discussion about favorite toppings and variations. After the first bite, there were no complaints—just smiles and requests for seconds! It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that brings the family together, making it a fantastic way to spice up your meal routine.

Ingredients

• 1 pound 85% lean ground beef
• 1½ tablespoons Garlic Garlic™ Seasoning
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 4 tablespoons Mama Mia™ Marinara Sauce Mix
• 8 ounces spaghetti pasta
• 12 stand ‘n stuff hard taco shells
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

Cook Ground Beef

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and Garlic Garlic Seasoning.
2. Cook and crumble the beef until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.

Make Sauce

3. Once the beef is cooked, add the crushed tomatoes and Mama Mia Marinara Sauce Mix to the skillet.
4. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.

Cook Spaghetti

5. Meanwhile, prepare the spaghetti pasta according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain well and set aside.

Combine

6. Stir the cooked spaghetti into the meat sauce mixture until everything is well combined.

Assemble Tacos

7. Divide the spaghetti and meat sauce mixture among the taco shells.
8. Top each taco with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Serve

9. Enjoy your spaghetti tacos hot, perhaps with a side of garden salad!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450
• Total Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 900mg
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g
• Protein: 25g

Preparation Time

• Active Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve the spaghetti tacos hot, straight from the skillet.
• Pair with:
• A fresh garden salad for a crunch.
• Sliced avocados or guacamole for added creaminess.
• Extra shredded cheese on top.
• A side of tortilla chips for additional texture.
• Salsa or marinara sauce for dipping.

Additional Tips

1. Lean Meat: Use lean ground turkey or chicken as a healthier alternative to beef.
2. Add Veggies: Include diced bell peppers or onions when cooking the ground beef for extra flavor and nutrition.
3. Cheese Options: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, for a twist.
4. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for some heat.
5. Make It Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative for a vegetarian version.

Recipe Variations

• Taco Bar: Set up a taco bar where everyone can customize their tacos with various toppings like sour cream, salsa, jalapeños, and more.
• Baked Spaghetti Tacos: After assembling, place the tacos in a baking dish, sprinkle with cheese, and bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes for a crispy finish.
• Creamy Sauce: Stir in some cream cheese or ricotta to the meat sauce for a creamy twist.
• Pasta Salad: Use the same ingredients to create a cold pasta salad instead of tacos for a refreshing dish.
• Sauce Variety: Try different sauces, like Alfredo or pesto, to change up the flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks for a complete meal.
• Serve with a light white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing drink.
• Offer a fruit salad or fresh fruit platter for dessert to balance the meal.

Freezing and Storage

• Make Ahead: Combine the ground beef and Garlic Garlic Seasoning in a gallon freezer bag. In a separate quart freezer bag, combine the crushed tomatoes and Mama Mia Marinara Sauce Mix. Seal both bags well, label, and freeze.
• Storage: Leftover spaghetti tacos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm the tacos in the oven or microwave until heated through. You may want to add a bit of extra cheese on top before reheating for an extra cheesy experience.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

• Yes, feel free to substitute ground turkey, chicken, or a meat alternative.

1. What if I don’t have Garlic Garlic Seasoning?

• You can use minced garlic, garlic powder, or a combination of Italian herbs for flavor.

1. Can I use whole wheat spaghetti?

• Absolutely! Whole wheat spaghetti is a great option for added fiber.

1. How do I make this dish vegetarian?

• Replace the ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or a meat substitute, and ensure your sauces are vegetarian-friendly.

1. Is there a gluten-free option?

• Yes, use gluten-free spaghetti and taco shells for a gluten-free version.

1. Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

• Yes, the sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

1. What toppings can I add?

• Consider toppings like diced avocado, chopped cilantro, jalapeños, sour cream, or additional cheeses.

1. Can I bake the spaghetti tacos?

• Yes, after assembling, you can bake them for a crispy finish and melted cheese.

1. How many servings does this recipe yield?

• This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   • Certainly! Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend.

Conclusion

Mama Mia Spaghetti Tacos is a delightful fusion that brings together the comforting essence of spaghetti and the fun of tacos in one delicious bite. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also adaptable to various dietary needs and preferences. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or just a cozy dinner at home, these spaghetti tacos are sure to please everyone at the table. The combination of flavors and textures will keep you coming back for more, making it a new favorite in your meal rotation. So, gather your ingredients, unleash your culinary creativity, and enjoy this fun and satisfying dish!

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