Hearty Crockpot Taco Pasta: A Comfort Food Delight
Hearty Crockpot Taco Pasta is a comforting meal that combines the flavors of tacos with hearty pasta, perfect for family dinners.
Equipment
- - Slow Cooker
- - Skillet
Ingredients
For the Meat
- 1 pound Ground Beef Use 85/15 or 90/10 for optimal taste and fat balance.
For the Vegetables
- 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances overall flavor; adjust according to your preference.
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds warmth and a slight kick to the dish.
- 1 medium Bell Pepper Add sweetness and texture; any color works well if diced evenly.
- 1 small Onion Contributes necessary sweetness and depth; diced.
For the Sauce
- 28 ounces Crushed Tomatoes Opt for a reliable brand like Hunt's.
- 15 ounces Salsa Pick your preferred heat level.
- 1 cup Corn Offers sweetness and texture; drained well.
- 1 packet Taco Seasoning Deliver the signature taco flavor; adjust spice levels as desired.
- 1 cup Water Essential for creating the sauce and cooking the pasta.
For the Pasta
- 8 ounces Shell Pasta Cooks in the sauce, soaking up flavors.
For the Cheese
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Tillamook is recommended for its excellent melt quality.
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Brown Beef: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Prep Vegetables: Dice bell pepper and onion into small, uniform pieces.
- Combine in Slow Cooker: Transfer browned beef to the slow cooker. Add the diced vegetables, crushed tomatoes, salsa, drained corn, taco seasoning, salt, and water. Stir to combine.
- Cook: Cover and let simmer on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
- Add Pasta: Increase heat to high, stir in shell pasta, and cover again. Cook for an additional 15-30 minutes until the pasta is tender.
- Finish with Cheese: Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and incorporated. Serve immediately.
Notes
Optional: Garnish with chopped cilantro, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños for extra flavor.