Crockpot Taco Shells & Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, blending creamy, cheesy pasta with bold taco flavors. This slow-cooker recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal prep while delivering maximum flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for an easy dish to bring to a potluck, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Creamy, Cheesy Goodness
This dish takes the best parts of classic mac and cheese and infuses them with the bold, smoky flavors of taco-seasoned beef. The combination of cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and heavy cream creates an ultra-creamy texture that coats every pasta shell perfectly. The taco seasoning and salsa add a spicy, zesty kick, making every bite extra flavorful.
2. One-Pot Convenience
One of the best things about Crockpot Taco Shells & Cheese is that it’s a true dump-and-go meal. Everything cooks in the slow cooker, which means no need for extra pots and pans. Simply brown the beef, toss everything in the crockpot, and let it do the work. This minimal effort, maximum flavor recipe is perfect for busy nights when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
3. Family-Friendly
This dish is a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. It’s warm, comforting, cheesy, and packed with bold yet balanced taco flavors. The creamy pasta and seasoned meat create a familiar yet exciting flavor combination that even picky eaters will love. Plus, it’s easy to customize toppings for each family member—some may prefer extra cheese, while others might want a spicy kick from jalapeños.
4. Perfect for Meal Prep
If you love leftovers that taste even better the next day, this recipe is a winner. The taco flavors develop and intensify as the dish sits, making it ideal for meal prep. Simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or milk to bring back its creamy consistency. You can even freeze portions for an easy, grab-and-reheat meal later on.
With cheesy goodness, bold flavors, and effortless cooking, Crockpot Taco Shells & Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that’s both practical and delicious!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup salsa or diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 2 cups beef or chicken broth
- 2 cups elbow macaroni or shell pasta
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 4 oz cream cheese (cubed)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, jalapeños, green onions, crushed tortilla chips
How to Make Crockpot Taco Shells & Cheese
1. Brown the Meat
Browning the ground beef before adding it to the crockpot enhances the flavor by caramelizing the meat. It also helps remove excess grease, preventing the dish from becoming too oily. After browning, drain the fat and mix in taco seasoning and salsa for a bold, well-seasoned base. If you want extra depth, let the meat cook with the seasoning for a couple of minutes before transferring it to the crockpot.
2. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
Once the beef is seasoned, add it to the slow cooker along with broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and uncooked pasta shells. Stir well to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed. The broth helps the pasta cook properly while also creating a rich, flavorful sauce.
3. Slow Cook Until Pasta is Tender
Set your crockpot to LOW and cook for about 2 to 3 hours. Every slow cooker is different, so it’s a good idea to check the pasta around the 1.5-hour mark to prevent overcooking. Stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking to the bottom and ensure even cooking. If the pasta is absorbing too much liquid, you can add a little extra broth to maintain the perfect consistency.
4. Stir in the Cheeses
Once the pasta is tender, it’s time for the best part—adding the cheeses! Stir in shredded cheddar, cream cheese, and heavy cream, mixing until everything is smooth and creamy. The combination of cheeses gives this dish its signature richness. If you like it extra cheesy, sprinkle a little more shredded cheddar on top before serving.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the Crockpot Taco Shells & Cheese into bowls and customize with your favorite toppings. Try garnishing with:
- Sour cream for a tangy contrast
- Sliced jalapeños for heat
- Crushed tortilla chips for crunch
- Diced avocado for creaminess
- Fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness
With these steps, you’ll have a flavor-packed, ultra-creamy, and comforting dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering. Enjoy!
Tips for the Best Crockpot Taco Shells & Cheese
1. Use Freshly Grated Cheese
Pre-shredded cheese may seem convenient, but it contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly. Freshly grated cheese melts better, creating a rich and creamy sauce without any graininess. For the best results, use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.
2. Stir Occasionally
While crockpot recipes are mostly hands-off, stirring once or twice during the cooking process helps prevent the pasta from sticking to the sides. This also ensures that the cheese melts evenly, giving you a silky, well-blended sauce. If you’re not home to stir, it will still cook fine, but the texture will be even better with an occasional mix.
3. Adjust the Spice Level
This dish is incredibly versatile when it comes to spice. For a bolder, spicier version, use a hot taco seasoning blend or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. You can also mix in diced jalapeños or a few drops of hot sauce. If you prefer a milder version, opt for mild taco seasoning, a gentle salsa, and reduce the spice to taste.
4. Don’t Overcook the Pasta
Overcooked pasta can turn mushy, so it’s important to keep an eye on the timing. Most crockpots will cook the pasta perfectly in about 2 hours, but since slow cookers vary, start checking around the 1.5-hour mark. If your slow cooker runs hot, you may need to reduce the time slightly.
5. Make It Extra Creamy
If you love an ultra-rich and creamy texture, there are a few easy ways to enhance it. Stir in an extra splash of milk, heavy cream, or even more cream cheese at the end of cooking. Another trick is to mix in a small amount of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving, adding both creaminess and a little tangy flavor.
By following these simple tips, you’ll create the perfect Crockpot Taco Shells & Cheese—a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a favorite!
Serving Suggestions
1. As a Standalone Meal
This dish is filling enough to be served on its own, with plenty of protein and cheese to keep you satisfied.
2. With a Side Salad
Pair with a crisp green salad or taco slaw to add some freshness and crunch.
3. With Tortilla Chips
Scoop up the cheesy goodness with tortilla chips for an extra fun way to eat it!
4. Inside a Taco Shell
Spoon the taco shells & cheese into soft or hard taco shells for an extra layer of flavor.
5. As a Casserole
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and broil for a few minutes until bubbly.
Creative Variations
1. Chicken Taco Mac & Cheese
If you’re looking for a lighter yet still flavorful version, swap out the ground beef for shredded rotisserie chicken. Using chicken broth instead of beef broth enhances the flavor and keeps the dish rich and creamy. You can even add a handful of corn or black beans for extra texture and nutrients.
2. Vegetarian Taco Shells & Cheese
For a meatless alternative, replace the ground beef with black beans, pinto beans, or lentils. These ingredients provide a hearty texture and protein boost while keeping the dish vegetarian-friendly. Using vegetable broth instead of beef broth also keeps the flavors balanced without compromising the richness.
3. Loaded Taco Mac
For an extra indulgent version, load up your taco mac with toppings like diced tomatoes, fresh avocado, extra jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream. Adding chopped cilantro or crumbled tortilla chips on top gives it extra crunch and freshness.
4. Buffalo Ranch Taco Mac
Love a spicy, tangy twist? Stir in ¼ cup buffalo sauce and 2 tablespoons ranch dressing into the mix. The buffalo sauce adds a zesty heat, while the ranch dressing cools it down with a creamy, herby flavor. This is perfect for buffalo wing lovers who want a new way to enjoy those bold flavors.
5. Bacon Cheeseburger Taco Mac
For a smoky, savory twist, add crispy crumbled bacon to the mix. The bacon pairs perfectly with the cheesy taco flavors, giving it a bacon cheeseburger-style taste. You can even mix in diced pickles or drizzle with burger sauce for an extra fun take on this comfort food classic.
With these creative variations, you can easily customize your Crockpot Taco Shells & Cheese to fit any taste preference. Whether you keep it classic, make it spicy, or load it up with extra toppings, this dish is sure to be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk.
2. Can I freeze Crockpot Taco Shells & Cheese?
Yes, but the texture of the pasta may change slightly. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months and thaw in the fridge before reheating.
3. What kind of pasta works best?
Shell pasta, elbow macaroni, or rotini work best because they hold onto the cheese sauce.
4. How do I prevent the cheese sauce from getting grainy?
Use freshly grated cheese and stir in the dairy ingredients at the end of cooking to keep the sauce smooth.
5. Can I make this on the stovetop?
Absolutely! Cook the pasta separately, then mix everything together in a large pot over low heat.
Conclusion
Crockpot Taco Shells & Cheese is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy nights or feeding a crowd. With minimal prep and endless variations, this slow-cooker recipe is a must-try. Whether served on its own, with chips, or inside taco shells, this dish will quickly become a family favorite.
Try this recipe today and enjoy the ultimate comfort food with a taco twist! For more comforting and cheesy recipes, check out our Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole!
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Crockpot Taco Shells & Cheese
Description
Crockpot Taco Shells & Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, blending creamy, cheesy pasta with bold taco flavors. This slow-cooker recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal prep while delivering maximum flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for an easy dish to bring to a potluck, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup salsa or diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 2 cups beef or chicken broth
- 2 cups elbow macaroni or shell pasta
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 4 oz cream cheese (cubed)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, jalapeños, green onions, crushed tortilla chips
Instructions
1. Brown the Meat
Browning the ground beef before adding it to the crockpot enhances the flavor by caramelizing the meat. It also helps remove excess grease, preventing the dish from becoming too oily. After browning, drain the fat and mix in taco seasoning and salsa for a bold, well-seasoned base. If you want extra depth, let the meat cook with the seasoning for a couple of minutes before transferring it to the crockpot.
2. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
Once the beef is seasoned, add it to the slow cooker along with broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and uncooked pasta shells. Stir well to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed. The broth helps the pasta cook properly while also creating a rich, flavorful sauce.
3. Slow Cook Until Pasta is Tender
Set your crockpot to LOW and cook for about 2 to 3 hours. Every slow cooker is different, so it’s a good idea to check the pasta around the 1.5-hour mark to prevent overcooking. Stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking to the bottom and ensure even cooking. If the pasta is absorbing too much liquid, you can add a little extra broth to maintain the perfect consistency.
4. Stir in the Cheeses
Once the pasta is tender, it’s time for the best part—adding the cheeses! Stir in shredded cheddar, cream cheese, and heavy cream, mixing until everything is smooth and creamy. The combination of cheeses gives this dish its signature richness. If you like it extra cheesy, sprinkle a little more shredded cheddar on top before serving.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the Crockpot Taco Shells & Cheese into bowls and customize with your favorite toppings. Try garnishing with:
- Sour cream for a tangy contrast
- Sliced jalapeños for heat
- Crushed tortilla chips for crunch
- Diced avocado for creaminess
- Fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness
With these steps, you’ll have a flavor-packed, ultra-creamy, and comforting dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering. Enjoy!