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Slow Cooker Taco Tortellini

This Slow Cooker Taco Tortellini combines bold taco flavors with creamy cheesy pasta for a hearty and comforting family dinner. Made with ground beef, taco seasoning, tomatoes, and cheese filled tortellini, this easy slow cooker meal is perfect for busy weeknights.
Print Recipe
Delicious cheesy beef tortellini served on a dark plate with a rustic background.
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:4 hours
Total Time:4 hours 15 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef browned and drained
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 36 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini
  • 1½ cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
  • Scallions for garnish optional

Instructions

  • Step 1: Add the Beef and Onion - Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet on the stove. Once the beef is cooked through, drain any excess grease. Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker along with the diced onion.
  • Step 2: Add the Sauce Ingredients - Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef mixture. Add the drained diced tomatoes with green chilies, beef broth, and heavy cream. Stir everything together so the flavors begin blending.
  • Step 3: Slow Cook the Base - Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about three hours. During this time the onions soften and the sauce develops rich taco flavor.
  • Step 4: Add the Tortellini - About thirty to forty minutes before serving, stir the refrigerated cheese tortellini into the slow cooker. Make sure the pasta is coated in the sauce so it cooks evenly.
  • Step 5: Melt the Cheese - Once the tortellini is tender, add the shredded Mexican blend cheese and stir until it melts into the sauce.
  • Step 6: Garnish and Serve - Spoon the taco tortellini into bowls and top with sliced scallions or fresh tomatoes if you like a little extra freshness. Then gather everyone around the table and enjoy.

Notes

Substitutions

  • Ground turkey: Ground turkey can replace ground beef for a lighter option that still works well with taco seasoning.
  • Half and half: If you do not have heavy cream on hand, half and half works as a creamy alternative.
  • Black beans: Adding a can of drained black beans can bring extra texture and make the meal even heartier.

Variations

  • Add sweet corn: Stir in a cup of corn for a little sweetness and extra texture.
  • Top with sour cream: A dollop of sour cream on each serving adds cool creaminess that pairs beautifully with taco flavors.
  • Serve as taco bowls: Spoon the tortellini mixture over rice or crushed tortilla chips for a fun taco bowl style dinner.

Tips and Tricks

  • Add tortellini at the end: Tortellini cooks quickly so adding it near the end keeps the pasta tender instead of overly soft.
  • Choose your spice level: Mild tomatoes create a gentle flavor while hot tomatoes add a bit more kick.
  • Stir gently: When adding the tortellini and cheese stir carefully to keep the pasta from breaking apart.
  • Taste before serving: Sometimes a small pinch of salt or extra cheese at the end can really bring the dish together.
  • Fresh toppings: Add diced tomatoes, scallions, or cilantro for a burst of freshness.
  • Warm tortillas: Serve with soft tortillas so everyone can scoop the pasta taco style.
  • Simple side salad: A crisp green salad balances the richness of the creamy pasta.
  • Crunchy tortilla chips: Chips on the side give a nice texture contrast with the creamy tortellini.

Storage and Make Ahead Tips

  • Refrigerator storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
  • Reheat gently: Warm leftovers on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
  • Make ahead base: The beef and sauce mixture can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge until ready to slow cook.
  • Portion for lunches: Leftovers reheat well and make a satisfying lunch the next day.
Servings: 6 servings