Remember those iconic spaghetti tacos from iCarly? The ones that looked suspiciously delicious despite their questionable construction? Well, forget the questionable part – we're diving headfirst into a surprisingly satisfying recreation. This isn't your grandma's spaghetti and meatballs; we're talking crispy taco shells cradling a vibrant, flavorful meat sauce, topped with all the cheesy, herbaceous goodness you can handle. Forget the skepticism; prepare to be amazed by how surprisingly well this seemingly bizarre combination works.
This recipe, inspired by the beloved Nickelodeon show, takes the whimsical concept of spaghetti tacos and elevates it to culinary heights. We’ll guide you through each step, from crafting the perfect meat sauce to achieving perfectly crispy taco shells. Ready to experience the deliciousness that is iCarly's spaghetti tacos? Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Saute pan
- Food processor
- Knife
- Wire rack
- Deep fryer
- Rolling pin or wooden dowel
- Nonstick skillet
Ingredients
- Taco shells
- Spaghetti noodles
- Ground beef: 1 pound
- Eggs
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Garlic powder
- Milk
- Oregano
- Fresh basil
- Fresh garlic: 4 cloves
- Red pepper flakes: 1 teaspoon
- Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Small onion
- San Marzano tomatoes: 1 can
- Tomato paste: 4 tablespoons
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Kosher salt
- Parmesan cheese
- Vegetable oil: 1 quart
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Tomato Sauce and Meatballs
- Make a simple tomato sauce. Chop basil, garlic, and onion.
- Sauté onions in olive oil until soft (3-5 minutes).
- Add red pepper flakes, oregano, garlic, and tomato paste; sauté for 1 minute.
- Chop San Marzano tomatoes in a food processor.
- Add tomatoes and basil to the pan. Simmer on low heat, stirring every 10 minutes, for about an hour.
- Combine ground beef, eggs, panko, garlic powder, milk, and oregano.
- Form into 1-inch balls. Bread half of them in panko breadcrumbs.
- Deep-fry meatballs at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Step 2. Cook the Spaghetti
- Cook spaghetti until slightly undercooked.
- Toss pasta with tomato sauce, pasta water, butter, salt, and olive oil.
Step 3. Assemble the Spaghetti Tacos
- Fill taco shells with spaghetti, meatballs, and Parmesan cheese.
Read more: Juicy Birria Quesa Tacos Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- For a more pronounced basil flavor, add it at the end of cooking the sauce.
- Breaded meatballs are recommended for better flavor and texture.
- Consider using Parmesan crisps instead of corn tortillas for a sturdier taco shell.
Nutrition
- Calories: 700-850
- Fat: 35-45g
- Carbs: 70-85g
- Protein: 30-40g
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of pasta instead of spaghetti?
Yes! While spaghetti is traditional, other long, thin pasta shapes will work well. Just make sure they're cooked al dente.
2. What's the best way to keep the taco shells crispy?
Ensure your shells are completely dry before filling. You can warm them briefly in a dry pan or oven before adding the spaghetti and toppings to help maintain their crispiness.
So there you have it – iCarly's Spaghetti Tacos, reimagined for your culinary pleasure. This surprisingly delicious recipe proves that sometimes, the most unexpected combinations lead to the most satisfying results. Enjoy this fun, quirky, and undeniably tasty twist on classic comfort food!