Description

Imagine a comforting, cheesy taco pasta dish that combines all the flavors you love about tacos with the satisfying warmth of a hearty pasta bake—without ever having to turn on your oven! Our Crock Pot Taco Shells and Cheese, also known as Slow Cooker Cheesy Taco Pasta, is a true comfort food classic that brings together seasoned ground beef, tender pasta shells, and a melty, creamy cheese sauce with a hint of zesty taco seasoning. This no-fuss, slow-cooked recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends when you want a meal that fills both your belly and your heart. Its rich, indulgent flavors and perfectly balanced textures make every bite a delightful explosion of taste. Best of all, it’s made in a slow cooker, allowing you to set it and forget it, while the aromas of melting Velveeta and savory beef fill your home with irresistible comfort.

Ingredients

• For the Main Dish:
• 1.5 lbs ground beef, browned and drained
• 3 cups cooked pasta shells (uncooked pasta shells that have been cooked al dente and drained)
• 2 oz taco seasoning (equivalent to two 1 oz packets)
• 12 oz can evaporated milk
• 16 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1/4 cup butter, sliced into thin pats

Preparation Method

Begin by preparing your ingredients so everything is ready to go. Start by browning the 1.5 lbs of ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease to ensure your dish isn’t overly fatty; this step is important for balancing the rich, creamy flavors later on. While the beef is cooking, prepare 3 cups of pasta shells. It’s best to cook them al dente, as they will continue to absorb flavor and moisture during the slow cooking process. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Now, take a lightly greased 6-quart slow cooker. Using a non-stick spray or a small amount of oil, grease the interior to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup later. Once your slow cooker is prepped, add the browned ground beef, ensuring that it’s evenly distributed across the bottom. Next, fold in the cooked pasta shells; this creates a hearty base for your casserole. Sprinkle the 2 oz of taco seasoning evenly over the beef and pasta mixture. This seasoning is key—it adds a zesty, aromatic kick reminiscent of your favorite tacos.

Pour the 12 oz can of evaporated milk over the mixture, which will lend creaminess and help meld all the flavors together as it cooks slowly. Add the cubed 16 oz Velveeta cheese; its melt-in-your-mouth texture is what transforms this dish into a gooey, comforting delight. Finally, gently place the 1/4 cup of butter, cut into thin pats, over the top. As the butter melts, it will enrich the overall flavor, making the dish even more decadent.

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 2 to 3 hours, or on high for 1 to 1.5 hours. Stir the mixture occasionally during the cooking process. This occasional stirring helps distribute the melted cheese and ensures that the flavors remain evenly balanced throughout the dish. The slow cooker works its magic, combining the rich beef, tender pasta, and velvety cheese sauce into a cohesive, indulgent meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Tips and Conclusion

For an extra burst of flavor and texture, try topping your cheesy taco pasta with a handful of crushed tortilla chips or a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro just before serving. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a few dashes of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes into the mix. This dish is incredibly versatile, so feel free to experiment with additional ingredients such as diced tomatoes or black olives to add a new twist to this classic recipe.

The Crock Pot Taco Shells and Cheese is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of comfort food that delivers rich, satisfying flavors in every spoonful. With its easy, one-pot preparation and mouthwatering combination of seasoned beef, tender pasta, and a luxurious cheese sauce, this dish is perfect for those busy days when you need a little culinary magic without the hassle. It’s an ideal choice for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even a personal treat when you want something indulgent and heartwarming. We invite you to try this recipe, tweak it to suit your taste, and share your delicious creations with friends and family. Explore more recipes on our site for additional comfort food delights that promise to make every meal a joyous celebration. Enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite and let this dish become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire!