Go Back
Alt text for featured image about Crockpot Taco Pasta

Crockpot Taco Pasta

This Crockpot Taco Pasta is an easy and flavorful one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights. Ground beef, taco seasoning, and classic taco toppings combine with pasta in a slow cooker for a satisfying and customizable dish.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 ounce taco seasoning packet
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • Sour cream, for topping optional
  • Guacamole, for topping optional
  • Salsa, for topping optional
  • Chopped cilantro, for topping optional

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • spatula
  • Crockpot (slow cooker)
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Can opener
  • colander
  • Mixing spoon

Method
 

  1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the taco seasoning, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes and green chilies, black beans, and corn.
  4. Transfer the mixture to a crockpot.
  5. Pour in the beef broth and stir to combine.
  6. Add the elbow macaroni to the crockpot. Make sure pasta is submerged in liquid, add more broth if needed.
  7. Cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  8. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
  9. Serve hot with your favorite taco toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and cilantro.

Notes

Browning the ground beef and sauteing the onions is crucial for developing the best flavor. Start with 4 cups of broth and add more if needed to ensure the pasta is submerged. Check the pasta's tenderness after 2 hours to avoid overcooking. This recipe can be easily customized with different types of pasta, beans, or toppings. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.