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!