Crock Pot Taco Shells and Cheese is the ultimate fusion of Tex-Mex flavors and creamy comfort food. This slow-cooked dish combines seasoned ground beef, pasta shells, a rich cheese sauce, and taco spices to create a hearty, flavorful meal that’s perfect for weeknights, gatherings, or game days. The best part? The crock pot does most of the work, making this recipe incredibly convenient for busy schedules.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy Prep: Minimal prep work and just one pot for cooking and serving.
Crowd-Pleaser: Combines the irresistible flavors of tacos and mac & cheese, making it a hit with both kids and adults.
Customizable: Add veggies, adjust the spice level, or swap proteins to suit your taste.
Hands-Free Cooking: The crock pot does all the heavy lifting, so you can focus on other tasks.
Ingredients
This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Base Ingredients
1 pound ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey or plant-based meat)
1 small onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups medium pasta shells (uncooked)
2 cups beef broth
1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)
1 (1-ounce) packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese, softened and cubed
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Optional Add-Ins
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for heat)
Toppings
Diced avocado
Sour cream
Chopped fresh cilantro
Sliced jalapeños
Crumbled tortilla chips
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked.
Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Drain any excess grease, then stir in the taco seasoning. Set the mixture aside.
2. Layer the Crock Pot
In the bottom of a 6-quart crock pot, pour the beef broth and diced tomatoes with their juices.
Add the uncooked pasta shells, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Layer the seasoned ground beef mixture on top.
3. Add the Cheese and Start Cooking
Scatter the cubed cream cheese over the beef layer.
Cover the crock pot with the lid and set it to cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1.5-2 hours.
4. Stir in the Shredded Cheese
After the pasta is tender and the cream cheese has melted, stir everything well to combine.
Add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, mixing until fully melted and creamy.
5. Adjust and Serve
If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of warm water or milk to loosen the sauce.
Taste and adjust seasonings, adding more salt, pepper, or spice as needed.
Serve immediately with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, avocado, or cilantro.
Tips for Perfect Crock Pot Taco Shells and Cheese
Cook Pasta Carefully: Check the pasta for doneness as slow cookers can vary in temperature. Overcooked pasta can become mushy, so test it early.
Don’t Overdo the Liquid: The pasta will absorb a lot of the liquid during cooking, so resist the urge to add extra broth unless needed.
Pre-Cook the Meat: Browning the ground beef beforehand adds flavor and ensures the meat cooks evenly.
Use Fresh Cheese: Shredding your own cheese results in a smoother sauce since pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents.
Customize the Heat: Adjust the spice level by adding more taco seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce.
Variations
This versatile recipe can be adapted in countless ways to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
1. Protein Swaps
Use ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled sausage for a different flavor profile.
Replace meat with plant-based ground crumbles or extra beans for a vegetarian option.
2. Add Vegetables
Stir in chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition.
Use roasted poblanos or jalapeños for a smoky, spicy kick.
3. Try Different Cheeses
Swap cheddar and Monterey Jack for Pepper Jack, Colby, or queso blanco for a unique twist.
4. Gluten-Free Option
Substitute with gluten-free pasta shells and ensure your taco seasoning is gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
Crock Pot Taco Shells and Cheese is a filling, one-pot meal, but it pairs beautifully with sides and toppings:
Side Salad: A crisp lettuce or mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
Tortilla Chips: Perfect for scooping up the creamy pasta or adding crunch as a topping.
Mexican Rice: Serve alongside for a more substantial Tex-Mex spread.
Storage and Reheating
Storing Leftovers
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
Microwave: Reheat individual portions on medium power, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Nutritional Benefits
Protein-Packed: Ground beef and cheese make this a satisfying, high-protein meal.
Calcium-Rich: The cheese and cream cheese contribute a good dose of calcium.
Customizable Add-Ins: Adding beans and vegetables increases fiber and micronutrient content.
Crock Pot Taco Shells and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs ground beef browned and drained
- 3 cups uncooked pasta shells cooked al dente and drained
- 2 oz taco seasoning 2 – 1 oz packets
- 12 oz can evaporated milk
- 16 oz Velveeta cubed
- 1/4 cup butter sliced into thin pats
Instructions
- Mix all your ingredients together in a lightly greased 6-quart slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I cook the pasta separately?
Yes! If you’re worried about overcooking the pasta, boil it separately, then stir it into the crock pot during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.
2. What if my sauce is too thick?
Thin it out by stirring in a splash of warm broth, milk, or water until you reach your desired consistency.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the ground beef and assemble the crock pot ingredients a day in advance. Store in the refrigerator, then cook as directed.
Conclusion
Crock Pot Taco Shells and Cheese is a deliciously creamy, cheesy, and flavorful meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. This one-pot wonder brings together the best of tacos and mac & cheese in an easy, hands-off recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Whether you stick to the classic version or customize it with your favorite ingredients, this dish is a guaranteed hit. Try it today, and enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of Tex-Mex goodness!