Why make this recipe
Crockpot Taco Pasta is a fantastic choice for busy days. It’s easy to prepare and allows the ingredients to blend together beautifully in the slow cooker. The combination of ground beef, beans, pasta, and spices creates a comforting meal that the whole family will enjoy. Plus, it’s a one-pot dish, making cleanup a breeze!
How to make Crockpot Taco Pasta
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 15 oz canned diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 15 oz canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 8 oz pasta (rotini or elbow)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
- Optional: chopped jalapeños or hot sauce
Directions:
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat; drain excess grease. Transfer the beef to your crockpot.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic; stir in taco seasoning.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and add the black beans.
- Add the pasta and beef broth; mix well.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, until the pasta is tender.
- Stir in the shredded cheese until melted; season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and add optional jalapeños or hot sauce if desired before serving.
How to serve Crockpot Taco Pasta
Serve the Taco Pasta hot from the crockpot. You can add garnishes like fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor. This dish pairs well with tortilla chips or a simple green salad to balance the meal.
How to store Crockpot Taco Pasta
Let any leftovers cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the Taco Pasta for up to 2 months. Be sure to reheat it thoroughly before enjoying again.
Tips to make Crockpot Taco Pasta
- Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. Add more taco seasoning for a spicier dish or skip it entirely for a milder version.
- You can use ground turkey or chicken as a healthier alternative to beef.
- If you want a thicker pasta dish, you can reduce the amount of beef broth.
Variation
For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or extra beans. You can also add diced bell peppers or corn for some extra veggies.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any short pasta like penne or shell pasta. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare all the ingredients the night before, store them in the fridge, and then add them to the crockpot in the morning.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta and be sure that the taco seasoning and beef broth are gluten-free as well.