Sizzling Crock Pot Taco Shells and Cheese Recipe for Cozy Nights

Taco lovers are about to experience a delightful twist on a classic comfort dish with crock pot taco shells and cheese.

This creamy, cheesy sensation combines the best of two beloved favorites into one irresistible meal.

Melted cheese cascades over perfectly seasoned shells, creating a mouthwatering blend of flavors.

Warm and indulgent, this recipe promises to satisfy even the most discerned comfort food cravings.

Every bite delivers a rich, tangy experience that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

The slow cooker makes preparation effortless, ensuring a stress-free cooking process.

Prepare to transform your dinner routine with this crowd-pleasing masterpiece that brings excitement to the dinner table.

Crock Pot Taco Shells and Cheese Cozy Comfort in Every Bite

• Dive into a hassle-free cooking experience that requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor with this one-pot wonder.
• Easily personalize the dish by adding your favorite taco toppings like jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or crispy bacon bits for a unique twist.
• Guaranteed to satisfy picky eaters and bring smiles around the dinner table with its creamy, cheesy goodness that appeals to all ages.
• Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or casual gatherings where you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Gather These Ingredients for Taco Shells and Cheese Bliss

• Ground Beef: A hearty protein that adds richness and depth to the dish.
• Taco Shells: Crispy corn shells that provide a classic Mexican-inspired crunch.
• Pasta: Elbow macaroni creates a comforting base for this cheesy meal.

• Cheddar Cheese, Monterey Jack Cheese: Melty cheeses that create a smooth, creamy texture and deliver bold flavor.
• Cream Cheese: Adds extra creaminess and helps bind the sauce.

• Taco Seasoning, Chili Powder, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Spices that bring classic taco flavor and warmth to the dish.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance the overall taste.
• Milk, Heavy Cream: Liquid ingredients that help create a rich and creamy sauce.

Kitchen Tools to Master Creamy Taco Shells and Cheese

• Slow Cooker (6-quart): The star of this recipe, where all the magic happens and ingredients meld together.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Perfect for mixing ingredients and stirring during cooking.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurately portioning ingredients.
• Can Opener: Needed to open canned ingredients smoothly.
• Cheese Grater: Optional, if you're using block cheese instead of pre-shredded.

How to Make Crock Pot Taco Shells and Cheese Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare Slow Cooker Base

Grab your trusty slow cooker and give it a light spray of cooking oil to prevent sticking.

This ensures easy cleanup and keeps your cheesy creation from clinging to the sides.

Step 2: Layer Delicious Ingredients

Toss in your favorite ingredients with excitement!

• Uncooked pasta shells
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Cream cheese
• Milk
• Taco seasoning
• Diced green chiles
• Shredded chicken or ground beef (optional)

Step 3: Mix and Blend Flavors

Use a large spoon to stir everything together, making sure all ingredients are well combined.

The goal is to create a beautiful, creamy mixture that promises comfort in every bite.

Step 4: Set Slow Cooker Magic

Cover the slow cooker and let the magic happen.

If you’re in a hurry, set it on high for 1-1.5 hours.

For a more relaxed approach, use the low setting for 2-3 hours.

Stir occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking and ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Check for Creamy Perfection

When pasta is tender and the sauce looks wonderfully creamy, your dish is ready.

The cheese should be melted and bubbling, creating an irresistible aroma that will have everyone rushing to the kitchen.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Scoop the steaming taco shells and cheese into bowls.

Top with extra cheese, chopped cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream if you’re feeling extra indulgent.

Dinner is served!

Pro Advice for the Creamiest Taco Shells and Cheese

• Grease the slow cooker insert with cooking spray or butter to ensure easy cleanup and prevent cheese from burning.
• Add a dash of ground cumin or chili powder to enhance the taco-inspired taste profile of the dish.
• Use a blend of sharp cheddar and pepper jack for maximum creaminess and a slight kick of spice.
• Swap ground beef with shredded chicken, turkey, or plant-based crumbles to suit different dietary preferences.
• Stir in a splash of milk or cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking to maintain a smooth, velvety consistency.

Taco Shells and Cheese Creative Options to Try

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace regular pasta with gluten-free shells or chickpea pasta for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Vegetarian Protein Boost: Swap ground meat with black beans or crumbled plant-based meat alternatives to create a protein-rich meatless option.
• Spicy Southwest Remix: Add diced green chilies, jalapeños, and swap some cheddar for pepper jack cheese to create a zesty southwestern flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Use cauliflower shells or zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta to reduce carbohydrate content while maintaining creamy texture.

Ideas for Serving Taco Shells and Cheese for Dinner

• Taco Night Topping Station: Set out fresh chopped cilantro, diced onions, sliced jalapeños, and sour cream to let everyone customize their cheesy creation.
• Protein Power-Up: Fold in shredded rotisserie chicken, ground beef, or black beans to make the dish more substantial and protein-packed.
• Side Dish Companions: Serve alongside crisp garden salad, Mexican street corn, or warm tortilla chips to complement the creamy texture of the mac and cheese.
• Fresh Finish: Sprinkle extra sharp cheddar or pepper jack cheese on top right before serving for an added layer of cheesy goodness.

Storing Leftover Taco Shells and Cheese Safely

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Transfer cooled taco shells and cheese to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Lay flat to maximize storage space.
• Place portion in microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of milk to restore creamy texture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming.
• Pour leftovers into a skillet over medium-low heat. Stir frequently and add small amounts of milk to prevent sticking. Warm gently until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other short pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne that hold cheese sauce well.

• Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! This taco shells and cheese can be prepared ahead of time and reheated easily, making it perfect for busy weeknights or advance meal planning.

• Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply replace ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives, black beans, or additional vegetables like diced bell peppers and corn to keep the protein content high.

• How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, increase the amount of taco seasoning, or sprinkle some red pepper flakes to boost the heat level according to your preference.

Crock Pot Taco Shells and Cheese Creamy, Cheesy Comfort Food Recipe

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4.6 from 38 reviews

• Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Creamy crock pot taco shells and cheese blend Mexican zest with classic comfort. Hearty ingredients meld together, offering a satisfying meal that brings culinary excitement to your table and delights you with each cheesy, spicy bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Proteins:

• 1.5 pounds (680 grams) ground beef, browned and drained
• 16 ounces (454 grams) Velveeta, cubed

Pasta and Seasoning:

• 3 cups uncooked pasta shells, cooked al dente and drained
• 2 ounces (57 grams) taco seasoning (2 1-ounce packets)

Dairy and Liquids:

• 12 ounces (340 milliliters) can evaporated milk
• 1/4 cup (57 grams) butter, sliced into thin pats

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Instructions

1. Grease the interior of a 6-quart slow cooker with a light coating to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Thoroughly blend all ingredients in the slow cooker, ensuring an even distribution of pasta, cheese, and seasonings for consistent flavor.
3. Cover the slow cooker and set to low temperature, allowing the mixture to simmer gently for 2-3 hours, creating a rich and creamy texture.
4. Stir the contents periodically during cooking to prevent pasta from clumping and to promote uniform heat distribution.
5. Check pasta tenderness around the 2-hour mark, ensuring it reaches a perfect al dente consistency without becoming mushy.
6. Once pasta is cooked and sauce has thickened, give a final gentle stir to incorporate any remaining unmelted cheese and blend flavors.
7. Let the dish rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking to allow the sauce to set and reach an optimal serving temperature.
8. Garnish with optional toppings like chopped cilantro, diced jalapeños, or crushed tortilla chips for added texture and flavor complexity.

Notes

• Swap taco shells for gluten-free options to accommodate dietary restrictions and make the dish more inclusive.
• Add extra protein by mixing in shredded chicken or ground beef for a heartier meal that satisfies bigger appetites.
• Control cheese richness by using low-fat cheese varieties or blending different cheese types for complex flavor profiles.
• Prevent pasta from becoming mushy by slightly undercooking it before adding to the slow cooker, ensuring a perfect texture when finished.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Category: Dinner, Lunch, Snacks
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 561
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 1050 mg
• Fat: 34 g
• Saturated Fat: 19 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 41 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 29 g
• Cholesterol: 105 mg