Easy Crockpot Cheesy Taco Pasta: Comfort Food in 4 Simple Steps

Craving a comforting dinner that practically cooks itself? With this Cheesy Taco Pasta prepared in your trusty crockpot, you'll have more time to enjoy life and less time worrying about dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Cheesy Taco Pasta

Prepare to transform simple pantry staples into an unforgettable meal. Here’s everything you’ll need to create this hearty, creamy, and flavorful dish in your crockpot:

• 8 ounces of large shell pasta (uncooked): These pasta shells are perfect for soaking up all the cheesy, zesty goodness in this dish.
• 1 pound of raw ground beef: Provides the hearty, protein-packed base for this comforting recipe. Use lean ground beef for less grease, or choose ground turkey for a lighter option.
• 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning (or 1 packet): Add a bold, authentic taco flavor with your favorite seasoning blend. You can even make your own for a personal touch.
• 3/4 cup of water: Helps the seasoning evenly coat the beef and pasta as it cooks to perfection.
• 1 cup of jarred salsa: Brings a tangy, spicy kick to the dish. Opt for mild, medium, or hot depending on your preferred heat level.
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese: Creates the irresistible creamy texture that ties the dish together. Sharp cheddar works best for a more pronounced cheesy flavor.
• 1 cup of broth (beef or chicken): Ensures the pasta cooks evenly in the crockpot while adding depth and richness to the dish.
• 1 cup of milk or heavy cream (optional): For an extra creamy touch, stir in milk or heavy cream. This step is optional but highly recommended for a luxurious finish.

Pro Tip: Keep these ingredients on hand for a quick, hassle-free meal your family will request again and again!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesy Taco Pasta

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious, comforting meal with minimal effort. Let your crockpot do the work while you enjoy the mouthwatering aroma filling your kitchen.

1. Assemble in the crockpot:
   • Place the raw ground beef, taco seasoning, and ¾ cup of water directly into the crockpot.
   • Use a wooden spoon to break up the ground beef into smaller chunks. This ensures the beef cooks evenly and absorbs all the bold taco flavors.
2. Cook the beef:
   • Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 2-3 hours or on low for 4-5 hours.
   • Stir the mixture halfway through to break up the beef further and evenly distribute the seasoning.
   • Once the beef is fully cooked, use a fork or spoon to crumble it into finer pieces for a smooth and consistent texture.
3. Add pasta and liquids:
   • Stir in the uncooked pasta, salsa, broth, and milk or heavy cream (if using).
   • Mix all the ingredients thoroughly to ensure the pasta is coated with the flavorful liquid.
4. Cook the pasta:
   • Cover and cook on high for 1-2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes to prevent sticking and to help the pasta cook evenly.
   • Check the pasta toward the end of the cooking time; it should be tender but not overcooked.
5. Add cheese:
   • Once the pasta is perfectly cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
   • Cover the crockpot and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and gooey.
6. Serve:
   • Stir the cheesy mixture to incorporate the melted cheese throughout the dish.
   • Serve the Cheesy Taco Pasta warm, garnished with your favorite toppings like fresh cilantro, sour cream, or diced tomatoes for extra flavor.

Pro Tip: Stir occasionally during the pasta cooking stage to prevent sticking and ensure the flavors meld together perfectly.