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Crockpot Cheesy Taco Pasta Bake

Crockpot Cheesy Taco Pasta Bake - featured image
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This easy, comforting Crockpot Cheesy Taco Pasta Bake combines zesty taco flavors, gooey cheese, and hearty pasta for a family-friendly dinner that practically cooks itself. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can be customized to suit your tastes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
  • 1 packet (about 1 oz) taco seasoning
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 2 cups low-sodium beef broth (or chicken broth)
  • 2 cups uncooked short pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
  • Sliced jalapeños (optional, for topping)
  • Sliced green onions (optional, for topping)
  • Chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for topping)
  • Extra shredded cheese (optional, for topping)
  • Crushed tortilla chips (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until no pink remains (5-7 minutes). Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant and soft. Drain excess grease.
  2. Sprinkle taco seasoning over the cooked meat mixture and stir until evenly coated.
  3. Transfer the meat mixture to the crockpot. Add diced tomatoes, Rotel, black beans, and beef broth. Stir gently.
  4. Cover and cook on LOW for 2.5–3 hours to allow flavors to meld.
  5. Stir in uncooked pasta, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Ensure pasta is submerged in liquid (add more broth if needed). Re-cover and cook on LOW for 30–45 minutes, or until pasta is al dente and cheese is melted.
  6. Stir in sour cream for added creaminess. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
  7. Spoon into bowls and top with jalapeños, green onions, cilantro, extra cheese, and crushed tortilla chips as desired. Let sit uncovered for 5 minutes to thicken before serving.

Notes

For best results, use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting. Add pasta only in the last 30–45 minutes to avoid mushiness. Customize with extra veggies, different proteins, or gluten-free pasta. Leftovers store well and are freezer-friendly. Stir occasionally after adding pasta and cheese for even cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot, cheesy taco pasta, pasta bake, slow cooker, family dinner, easy recipe, comfort food, taco pasta, meal prep

Find it online: https://hungermind.com/crockpot-cheesy-taco-pasta-bake-recipe-easy-family-dinner-idea/