Slow Cooker Cheesy Taco Pasta is a simple, comforting meal that combines all the best flavors of tacos and pasta in one delicious dish. With tender pasta, seasoned beef, creamy cheese, and a hint of spice, this recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner. Just set up your slow cooker, and let it do all the work while you enjoy the aroma of this hearty meal filling your home. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of cheddar soup (or cream of mushroom)
- 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (such as rotini or elbow macaroni)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
- Add Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Assemble the Slow Cooker
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Transfer the browned beef, onion, and garlic mixture to your slow cooker.
- Add Seasonings and Liquids: Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, beef broth, and cream of cheddar soup. Mix well to combine.
Step 3: Cook the Taco Mixture
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours or on HIGH for 1.5-2 hours, allowing all the flavors to blend together.
Step 4: Add Pasta and Finish the Dish
- Add Pasta and Cream: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked pasta and heavy cream. Make sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid to cook evenly.
- Add Cheese: After 20-25 minutes, once the pasta is tender, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream until creamy and well combined.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired and serve the cheesy taco pasta warm.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Pasta: Make sure to stir the pasta well so that it is submerged in the liquid for even cooking.
- Cream Substitute: You can use whole milk instead of heavy cream if you prefer a lighter version.
- Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker. Start checking the pasta around the 20-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Spicy Kick: Add a chopped jalapeño or extra chili powder if you like your pasta extra spicy.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in a cup of corn or black beans for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: Serve with a simple green salad dressed with a lime vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.
- Garlic Bread: Pair with warm garlic bread or breadsticks for dipping into the creamy sauce.
- Taco Toppings: Offer classic taco toppings like chopped tomatoes, shredded lettuce, or sliced jalapeños to let everyone customize their plate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Yes, you can use any short pasta, such as penne, fusilli, or bowtie. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the pasta is tender.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, transfer it to the slow cooker, add the pasta and cream, and cook as directed.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef in this recipe and will taste just as delicious.
Slow Cooker Cheesy Taco Pasta is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings all the deliciousness of tacos into a creamy pasta format. It’s a perfect family-friendly meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Set it up in your slow cooker, let the flavors meld together, and enjoy a comforting, cheesy dinner that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Gather your ingredients, plug in your slow cooker, and let the magic happen!
Happy Cooking!