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Hearty Crockpot Taco Pasta

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.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Course dinner
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

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 jalapeƱos for extra flavor.
Keyword comfort food, easy dinner, family-friendly, Hearty Crockpot Taco Pasta, one-pot meal, slow cooker