Delish!! You’ve gotta try this!
1 big block of Velveeta
1 8oz block of cream cheese
1 can of cream of chicken
1 can of Rotel Tomatoes with chilies
2.25 pounds ground beef
1 box of bowtie noodles
Crock pot on high while you brown the ground beef, add to the crock pot, let on high for about an hour and a half, mix. Boil your noodles, add them before you’re ready to serve. (I added about a cup of pasta water to thin the sauce out a little bit, but do what you feel is necessary)
Variations and Tips for Creamy Crockpot Taco Pasta
Variations:
1. Different Meats: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or sausage. You can also use a mix of meats for a unique flavor.
2. Cheese Options: While Velveeta provides a creamy texture, you can mix in shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for extra cheesy goodness.
3. Add Vegetables: Boost the nutrition by adding bell peppers, corn, black beans, or spinach. These can be added during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
4. Spice Level: Adjust the heat by using mild, medium, or hot Rotel tomatoes. Add extra chili powder, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick.
5. Pasta Choices: While bowtie noodles are great, you can substitute with penne, rotini, or shells, which also hold the sauce well.
6. Creamier Sauce: For an even creamier dish, stir in a cup of sour cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt right before serving.
7. Taco Seasoning: Enhance the taco flavor by adding a packet of taco seasoning to the ground beef while browning it.
8. Top It Off: Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, green onions, or a squeeze of lime juice for a burst of fresh flavor. You can also top with crushed tortilla chips for added crunch.
9. Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash in place of the pasta for a lower-carb version of this dish.
10. Bacon Lovers: Add crumbled bacon for an extra smoky, savory flavor.
Tips:
1. Prevent Clumping: Stir the mixture occasionally while in the crockpot to ensure the cheese melts evenly and doesn’t clump.
2. Thin the Sauce: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more pasta water, milk, or chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
3. Cook Pasta Separately: Always cook the pasta separately and add it to the crockpot just before serving to prevent it from becoming too soft or mushy.
4. Make Ahead: Prepare the ground beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. On cooking day, simply add it to the crockpot with the other ingredients.
5. Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
6. Freezing: This dish can be frozen without the pasta for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat and cook fresh pasta to stir in before serving.
7. Watch the Cheese: Velveeta can break down if overcooked, so keep an eye on the timing and avoid cooking for too long after the cheese has been added.
8. Layering Flavor: For more depth of flavor, deglaze the pan used to brown the meat with a bit of beef broth or red wine, and add this to the crockpot.
9. Serving Ideas: Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to balance out the richness of the dish.
10. Kid-Friendly: This dish is usually a hit with kids. For a milder flavor, use plain diced tomatoes instead of Rotel, and omit any extra spices.
These variations and tips will help you customize your Creamy Crockpot Taco Pasta to fit your taste preferences and make the cooking process even easier!