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Easy Slow Cooker Taco Pasta Bake

Have you ever tried making pasta in the slow cooker? You should try this incredible Slow Cooker Taco Pasta Bake! Super flavorful and a great dinner idea.

Easy Slow Cooker Taco Pasta Bake

This is a super fun dinner idea that the whole family will love. It’s one of those amazing comfort slow cooker recipes that you can’t get enough of. This is definitely one of our favorite ways to use the slow cooker.

Can I put dry pasta in the slow cooker?

Yes, you can definitely put uncooked pasta in the slow cooker! I’ve cooked all kinds of pasta in the slow cooker. It takes some time to get it just right but very little attention is necessary on your part. This easy recipe will become a family favorite and it is a great crock pot recipe for busy weeknights.

Is taco seasoning gluten free?

Taco seasoning mix can contain gluten or be labeled gluten-free, depending on the brand. Be sure to check!

How long does it take to cook pasta in the slow cooker?

It takes about 2-2 1/2 hours on HIGH, or 3-4 hours on LOW.

Do I need to cook the meat before putting it in the slow cooker?

No, you can cook your ground beef and/or turkey right along with all the other ingredients. You do not have to pre-cook anything! This will be one of your favorite slow cooker taco pasta recipe.

The great thing about this creamy taco pasta is that the entire family will love it! You can even top this delicious meal with a dollop of sour cream, white onion, green pepper or even shredded cheese.

What ingredients do you need for this Slow Cooker Taco Pasta?

  • 1-pound lean ground beef (or ground turkey)
  • 1 small yellow onion diced
  • 1 cup diced pepper (I used yellow and orange)
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
  • 1 cup salsa or taco sauce
  • 3 cups beef stock
  • 12 ounces cooked pasta (I used elbow)
  • 1/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese 
  • ½ cup heavy cream or half and half
  • Sour cream, fresh cilantro, tomatoes, onions, and/or avocado for garnish/topping

It’s one of those great recipes comfort food that is great for busy days. This taco stew dish is even better the next day! You can use a medium pasta shells, I used elbows.

A great way to use your slow cooker for a “quick meal” with a little prep time of course. You won’t need any black beans, tomato sauce or enchilada sauce. This is one of the best slow cooker taco pasta recipes!

Easy Slow Cooker Taco Pasta Bake
Yield: 6-8 servings

Easy Slow Cooker Taco Pasta Bake

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 5 minutes

This slow cooker taco bake recipe is so good and easy to make. It will be an instant family favorite!

Ingredients

  • 1-pound lean ground beef 
  • 1 small yellow onion diced
  • 1 cup diced pepper (I used yellow and orange)
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
  • 1 cup salsa or taco sauce
  • 3 cups beef stock
  • 12 ounces cooked pasta (I used elbow)
  • 1/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese 
  • ½ cup heavy cream or half and half
  • Sour cream, fresh cilantro, tomatoes, onions, and/or avocado for garnish/topping

Instructions

  1. Spray the slow cooker insert with non-stick cooking spray. 

Instructions:

  1. Step 1: Add the ground beef to a large frying pan. Cook until the pink is almost gone. Add the onion and garlic. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant. Add the cooked beef mixture to the slow cooker insert. 
  2. Step 2:  Add the beef broth and taco seasoning to the slow cooker. 
  3. Steps 3-4: Add in the peppers, salsa or taco sauce, and cooked pasta to the slow cooker. Stir until combined.
  4. Step 5: Cover and secure the kid and set the slow cooker for 2-4 hours on high or 4-6 hours on low.
  5. Step 6: Open the slow cooker and add the cream and shredded cheese. Stir to combine everything together. Close the lid for 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
  6. Serve immediately. Enjoy!

Nutrition Information

Yield

8

Serving Size

1

Amount Per Serving Calories 385Total Fat 19gSaturated Fat 8gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 9gCholesterol 73mgSodium 671mgCarbohydrates 31gFiber 7gSugar 5gProtein 25g

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Before you go, check out these great posts!

Healthy Cilantro Chicken Lime Tacos

Easy and Delicious Instant Pot Taco Soup

Mexican Beef and Vegetable Rice Bowl

Instant Pot Taco Stuffed Baked Potatoes

Easy Nacho Bites: All The Nachos Flavor Without The Mess!

Emilie

Sunday 2nd of April 2023

Unfortunately I just tried to make this and it came out a mushy pasta with ground meat :(

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