Slow Cooker Taco Tortellini - Super Tasty Recipes

Prep Time:15

Cook Time:4

Total Time:4 15

Step 1: Brown the Beef - Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Break the meat apart as it cooks so it browns evenly. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess grease. This step helps develop flavor and keeps the finished dish from becoming too greasy.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker - Transfer the browned ground beef to the slow cooker. Add the diced onion right on top. Next stir in the taco seasoning, drained diced tomatoes with green chilies, beef broth, and heavy cream. Give everything a good stir so the seasoning and liquids are evenly combined.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Mixture - Cover the slow cooker and cook the mixture on low for about 3 hours. During this time the onions soften, the flavors blend together, and the sauce develops a rich taco inspired taste.
Step 4: Add the Tortellini - After the initial cooking time, stir in the refrigerated cheese tortellini. Make sure the pasta is well coated in the sauce so it cooks evenly. Continue cooking on low for another 30 to 40 minutes until the tortellini is tender.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese - Once the tortellini is cooked through, stir in the shredded Mexican blend cheese. The heat from the slow cooker will melt the cheese into the sauce, making the dish creamy and rich.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve - Just before serving, sprinkle sliced scallions on top if you like. Serve warm in bowls and enjoy a comforting dinner that feels like taco night and pasta night all at once.

Substitutions

Ground turkey: Ground turkey works well if you prefer a lighter option while still keeping the taco flavor.
Half and half: Half and half can replace heavy cream if you want a slightly lighter sauce.
Black beans: Stirring in black beans adds extra texture and protein.

Add corn: Sweet corn kernels add color and a subtle sweetness that pairs well with taco seasoning.
Top with sour cream: A dollop of sour cream on top adds tangy creaminess.
Serve as taco bowls: Spoon the mixture over rice or tortilla chips for a taco bowl style meal.

Add tortellini near the end: Cooking the pasta too early can make it soft, so always add it during the final cooking stage.
Adjust spice level: Choose mild or hot diced tomatoes with green chilies depending on how spicy you like your food.
Stir occasionally if possible: Giving the slow cooker a gentle stir during the final cooking stage helps the cheese melt evenly.
Use refrigerated tortellini: Fresh refrigerated tortellini holds its texture better than frozen for this recipe.

Warm tortillas: Soft tortillas make a fun side if you want to scoop the pasta taco style.
Simple green salad: A crisp salad balances the richness of the creamy sauce.
Tortilla chips: Crunchy chips are great for scooping up the cheesy beef mixture.
Fresh toppings: Add diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, or sliced avocado for a taco inspired finish.

Refrigerate leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently: Warm leftovers on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream.
Prep ahead: The ground beef mixture can be cooked and refrigerated earlier in the day before adding to the slow cooker.
Freeze the base: The beef and sauce mixture can be frozen before adding tortellini for a quick future meal.

Servings: servings