Description
This Slow Cooker Taco Pasta is a flavorful, comforting dish that combines seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, and creamy pasta cooked effortlessly in a slow cooker. Perfect for busy weeknights, it offers a cheesy, hearty meal that's easy to prepare and serves six people.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 Tablespoons taco seasoning (1 packet = 2 Tablespoons)
- 10 ounces diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained)
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 8 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni or rotini pasta
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from being too oily.
- Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: Transfer the cooked beef to the slow cooker. Add taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours allowing the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender.
- Add Pasta: About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni or rotini pasta. Continue to cook until the pasta is tender and cooked through.
- Incorporate Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, mix in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy.
- Add Sour Cream and Season: If desired, add sour cream to the slow cooker and mix thoroughly. Season with salt and pepper to your taste preferences.
- Optional Garnish: For extra cheesiness, top with additional shredded cheese and allow it to melt prior to serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired for a fresh finish.
Notes
- Use rotini pasta as an alternative for a different texture.
- Do not add pasta at the beginning to avoid it becoming mushy; add it only 15 minutes before the end of cooking.
- Sour cream is optional but adds creaminess and tanginess.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
- For added freshness, garnish with chopped cilantro or sliced green onions.
- If you prefer, use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner meat option.
- The dish can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
