Get ready to revolutionize your dinner routine with the most mouthwatering mashup you've ever tasted! Imagine the zesty kick of classic tacos blended seamlessly with the creamy, cheesy goodness of macaroni - all prepared effortlessly in your slow cooker. This Slow Cooker Taco Macaroni and Cheese is about to become your new family favorite, transforming ordinary weeknight meals into an irresistible fiesta of flavors that will have everyone begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb elbow macaroni, 1 lb ground beef, 1 packet taco seasoning, 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese, 2 cups beef broth, 1 can diced tomatoes, and salt to taste.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Once the beef is browned, stir in the taco seasoning. Mix well to ensure the beef is evenly coated with the seasoning. Set aside.
- In the slow cooker, combine the beef broth and diced tomatoes (including the juice from the can). Stir to mix well.
- Add the cooked ground beef with taco seasoning to the slow cooker, mixing it into the broth and tomatoes.
- Next, add the elbow macaroni to the slow cooker. Stir everything together to ensure the macaroni is submerged in the liquid.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low heat for about 4 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent the macaroni from sticking together.
- After 4 hours, check the macaroni for doneness. If it is tender, gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. If the mixture appears too thick, you can add a little more beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Season with salt to taste, mixing well to incorporate. Allow the mixture to heat through for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Once everything is well combined and heated, serve the Slow Cooker Taco Macaroni and Cheese warm. Enjoy your delicious, cheesy, and flavorful meal!
Tips
- For extra richness, consider using a blend of cheeses like sharp cheddar and pepper jack for added depth of flavor.
- Make sure to drain excess fat from the ground beef to prevent a greasy final dish.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when mixing the ingredients.
- Stir the pasta occasionally during cooking to prevent clumping and ensure even cooking.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey for beef or use low-fat cheese.
- Garnish with fresh toppings like chopped cilantro, diced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream before serving to elevate the presentation.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheated with a splash of beef broth to restore moisture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 42g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 95mg
