Get ready to elevate your taco night with a mouthwatering twist! Our Crock Pot Taco Shells and Cheese recipe combines the rich, savory flavors of seasoned ground beef and melted cheese, all nestled in crispy taco shells for the ultimate comfort food experience. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish promises to be a hit with family and friends alike. With just 10 minutes of prep and a slow cooker doing the heavy lifting, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to impress without the fuss. Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and discover how to make taco magic happen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 3 hrs
Total Time: 3 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 6 taco shells
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Begin by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the meat.
- Transfer the browned ground beef to the crock pot and sprinkle the entire packet of taco seasoning over the meat, stirring to ensure even distribution.
- Pour the can of diced tomatoes over the seasoned ground beef, including all the juices from the can. Gently mix to combine all ingredients.
- Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low heat for 3 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender.
- About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the meat mixture and allow it to melt completely.
- While the cheese is melting, warm the taco shells in the oven at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to restore their crispness.
- To serve, carefully spoon the cheesy taco meat into each warm taco shell, ensuring an even distribution.
- Optionally, garnish with additional toppings like chopped cilantro, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños to enhance the flavor profile.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh ground beef and a flavorful taco seasoning for the best taste. You can also customize the seasoning to suit your spice preference.
- Layering is Key: When adding the ingredients to the crock pot, layer them carefully. Start with the beef, then the seasoning, and finally the tomatoes to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allow the mixture to cook on low for the full 3 hours. This slow cooking process melds the flavors beautifully and ensures the meat is tender and juicy.
- Cheese Melting Tip: For perfectly melted cheese, add it about 15 minutes before serving. This allows it to melt just right without becoming overly greasy.
- Crispy Taco Shells: Warm the taco shells in the oven just before serving to restore their crunch. This contrast of textures makes each bite even more delightful.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Don’t skip the toppings! Fresh cilantro, sour cream, and sliced jalapeños add a burst of freshness and heat that complements the cheesy filling perfectly.
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to add beans, corn, or diced peppers to the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.Enjoy your cooking adventure with this delectable recipe!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 85mg
