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+ servings
Crockpot Taco Pasta served in a bowl with cheese and toppings

Crockpot Taco Pasta

A hands-off, hearty one-pot dinner combining taco flavors with creamy, cheesy pasta, perfect for busy weeknights and potlucks.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

Meat and Vegetables
  • 1 pound ground beef Can be substituted with plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
Pasta and Seasoning
  • 2 cups pasta (penne or rotini preferred) Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 4 cups beef broth Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.
Cheese
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend) For a creamier finish, stir in 4 ounces of cream cheese.
Condiments
  • to taste salt and pepper

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Put the ground beef and diced onion into the crockpot. Break the meat into chunks so it cooks evenly. Stir occasionally as it browns.
  2. Add the diced tomatoes, drained black beans, corn, and taco seasoning. Pour in the beef broth and stir until combined.
  3. Add the dry pasta and push the pieces down so they are submerged in the liquid.
Cooking
  1. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. Start checking the pasta at the 4-hour mark so it reaches tender but not mushy.
  2. When the pasta is tender, turn off the crockpot. Stir in the shredded cheese until it melts into a creamy sauce.
  3. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Calories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4g

Notes

Best served with fresh cilantro, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days; can be frozen for up to 3 months.

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