Crockpot Taco Pasta
Crockpot Taco Pasta is one of those comforting recipes that never fails to impress on busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. The beauty of this dish lies in its effortless preparation — toss the ingredients into the slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you tackle your day. With layers of hearty flavors and gooey cheese blending together, this meal is a favorite among families and friends alike. Trust me, once you serve up a steaming bowl of this deliciousness garnished with fresh cilantro, everyone will be asking for seconds!
Why you’ll love this dish
Crockpot Taco Pasta is a culinary delight that checks all the boxes: it’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and most importantly, a hit with kids! There’s a certain familiarity about taco seasoning and pasta that resonates with everyone, making it ideal for any casual occasion. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something satisfying that everyone will enjoy. Not to mention, there’s minimal cleanup, making it a win-win for home cooks!
"This Crockpot Taco Pasta is a lifesaver on hectic nights! I love how it’s packed with flavor. My kids ask for it weekly!"
The cooking process explained
Making this scrumptious Crockpot Taco Pasta is easier than you might think. First, you’ll spend a little time browning the ground beef, onion, and garlic — that’s where the deep flavors start to build. Once that mix is ready, you just transfer it to the crockpot and layer in the remaining ingredients. Cover it up, set it to cook, and let the slow cooker do all the work while you unwind.
What you’ll need
Gathering the ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you need to make this delicious dish:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 8 ounces pasta (elbow macaroni works great)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend are excellent options)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Feel free to use ground turkey for a leaner option or swap out the pasta for gluten-free varieties!
Step-by-step instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the diced onion and minced garlic until the meat is thoroughly cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Transfer the beef mixture to your crockpot.
- Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, add the diced tomatoes, and pour in the chicken broth.
- Stir in the uncooked pasta, ensuring it’s fully submerged in the liquid.
- Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1.5-2 hours, until the pasta is tender and cooked through.
- Once cooked, stir in the shredded cheese until it melts into a creamy delight.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference.
- Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro for an extra pop of flavor.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving your Crockpot Taco Pasta can be as simple or creative as you like! Consider presenting it in bowls topped with a dollop of sour cream, slices of ripe avocado, or a sprinkle of jalapeños for those who crave a bit of heat. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad or tortilla chips for a little crunch.
Storage and reheating tips
Leftovers can be a blessing! To store your Crockpot Taco Pasta, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 3 months. When reheating, ensure it’s warmed thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F. Adding a splash of chicken broth during reheating can help revive the dish if it feels a bit dry.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few pro tips to elevate your cooking experience with this recipe:
- Use lean ground beef or ground turkey for a healthier option without sacrificing taste.
- To save time, you can prep the beef, onions, and garlic in advance and store them in your fridge up to two days prior.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, add a block of cream cheese along with the shredded cheese.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few variations to try:
- Substitute the ground beef with shredded chicken or chorizo for a different flavor profile.
- Add black beans or corn for extra fiber and nutrition.
- For a spicy kick, incorporate diced green chilies or top with spicy salsa.
Your questions answered
Q: How long does it take to prepare?
A: The prepping part takes about 10-15 minutes, while the cooking time in the crockpot can range from 1.5 to 4 hours, depending on the heat setting.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheese types like Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for some heat.
Q: How can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: You can easily make it vegetarian by swapping the ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
This Crockpot Taco Pasta promises a delightful meal that’s simple, flavorful, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table. So why not give it a try? You’ll wonder how you ever managed without this recipe in your collection!
Crockpot Taco Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 14.5 ounces can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth Can be substituted with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version
- 8 ounces pasta (elbow macaroni) Can substitute with gluten-free pasta if desired
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend) Experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust based on personal preference
- to garnish Chopped cilantro For garnishing
Instructions
Preparation
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the diced onion and minced garlic until the meat is thoroughly cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Transfer the beef mixture to your crockpot.
- Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, add the diced tomatoes, and pour in the chicken broth.
- Stir in the uncooked pasta, ensuring it's fully submerged in the liquid.
- Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1.5-2 hours, until the pasta is tender and cooked through.
- Once cooked, stir in the shredded cheese until it melts into a creamy delight.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference.
- Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro for an extra pop of flavor.
