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

1. Prepare all ingredients.
2. Brown 1.5 lbs of ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until fully cooked, then drain excess grease.
3. Cook 3 cups of pasta shells al dente, drain, and set aside.
4. Grease the interior of a 6-quart slow cooker.
5. Add the browned ground beef to the slow cooker and distribute evenly.
6. Fold in the cooked pasta shells.
7. Sprinkle 2 oz of taco seasoning over the mixture.
8. Pour 12 oz of evaporated milk over the mixture.
9. Add 16 oz of cubed Velveeta cheese.
10. Place 1/4 cup of thinly cut butter pats on top.
11. Cover and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours or on high for 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.

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!