Name: Quick Crockpot Taco Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 h
Total time: 5 h 10 min
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 15 oz can diced tomatoes, undrained; 15 oz can corn, drained; 8 oz can tomato sauce; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional); Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups beef broth; 2 cups uncooked pasta shells; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish); Lime wedges (optional, for serving)

Description

The Quick Crockpot Taco Pasta is a delightful dish that merges the beloved flavors of tacos with the heartiness of pasta.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb lean ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
15 oz can diced tomatoes, undrained
15 oz can corn, drained
8 oz can tomato sauce
1 packet taco seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups beef broth
2 cups uncooked pasta shells
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Lime wedges (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Begin your culinary adventure by preheating a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula as it browns. Keep an eye out for any excess grease pooling in the pan and drain it afterward. Toss in the diced onions and minced garlic, stirring them together for about 2–3 minutes until they become fragrant and the onions soften.
With the beef mixture ready, transfer it to your trusty crockpot. Next, add in the diced tomatoes, drained corn, and tomato sauce. Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, paprika, cumin, and chili powder if you’re feeling spicy! Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. Lastly, pour in the beef broth and stir everything together until well combined.
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to LOW for 4–5 hours, or on HIGH for 2–3 hours.
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, introduce the uncooked pasta shells to the pot. Stir them in gently, re-covering the crockpot for optimal cooking. Let them cook on HIGH for another 25–30 minutes, or until they’re tender.
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt and create a wonderfully creamy texture. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, ladle the Quick Crockpot Taco Pasta into bowls, garnishing each serving with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve warm and prepare to savor the delightful medley of flavors.

Notes

Add a splash of beef broth or water when reheating leftovers to restore the sauciness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 hours
Category: Dinner

Nutrition

Calories: 450 kcal
Sodium: 800 mg
Protein: 25 g